According to Sina, Wang Jibing, 57 years old, was honored for his book, Low Flight. Organized by the China Writers Association, the Lu Xun Literary Prize was first awarded in 1997 and is one of China's most prestigious literary events. Typically, the China Writers Association nominates and presents the award every four years; this year marks the ninth occasion.

Published in 2024, Low Flight features poems and essays by Wang Jibing, reflecting on his work, daily life, love, and family. In many works, he describes his emotions and the changes since gaining recognition.

On Shangguan News, the poet stated he received news of the award while working at his family's convenience store, selling products such as candies, instant noodles, soft drinks, and toothpaste.

"When I heard the news, I wasn't surprised or excited; I just felt a burden lifted. Since being shortlisted on 12/7, many people had called and messaged to congratulate me. With so many early congratulations, if I hadn't won, I wouldn't have known how to face them," Wang Jibing said.

His first line of poetry after receiving the award was: "I hope everyone can rest assured; my life remains as ordinary as ever."

When asked if he would continue making deliveries, he replied: "As long as I live in Kunshan, Jiangsu province, I will continue this profession. Actually, I wanted to work today, but I had too many other tasks and couldn't open the delivery app."

Regarding the question: "Why do you still deliver after becoming famous?", Wang Jibing said: "Because it is my job, my life; I know who I am."

Wang Jibing, the delivery driver who writes poetry. Photo: China Writer

Born in 1969, Wang Jibing completed middle school and worked various jobs, including construction worker and street vendor. For over 10 years, he has been a delivery driver. The seeds of literature took root in Wang Jibing's soul when he was under 20, while working with a construction crew. Discovering a stall that offered books for free, Wang Jibing borrowed and read every book he could, gradually developing an interest in writing prose and poetry.

To date, he has written over 6,000 poems and published five collections. Through years of earning a living, Wang Jibing considers poetry a sweet candy that helps him balance his emotions. "Being a delivery driver is a tough job, like bitter medicine taken daily. Poetry is the candy that melts in my mouth after taking the medicine," he said.

One of Wang Jibing's most widely circulated poems is "The Time Chaser," which originated from an unpleasant delivery experience. On that occasion, the customer had entered the wrong address, and Wang Jibing had to navigate several detours to complete the delivery. However, the customer rated the delivery driver's "attitude poor," causing him to lose money and miss other orders.

On his way home, Wang Jibing wrote: "From the air, chasing the wind; from the wind, chasing the blade; from bone marrow, chasing fire; from fire, chasing water. The time chaser knows no seasons, only this stop and the next."

Jibing stated that after writing it, he felt more at ease; poetry helps him "reconcile with himself." In 7/2022, poet Chen Zhaohua shared Wang Jibing's "The Time Chaser" on Weibo, attracting over 100,000 likes, and the topic of Wang Jibing's poetry garnered over 26 million followers.

Wang Jibing's verses resonate with many workers navigating the hustle of daily life. One reader wrote on a forum after reading his book: "His poetry speaks directly to the hearts of those who jostle on subways, endure grievances patiently, or occasionally call their parents to say, 'I'm fine.'"

Since gaining recognition, Wang Jibing's life changed. He was invited to participate in poetry programs, award ceremonies, television shows, livestream sales, and advertisements. As the attention subsided, Wang Jibing returned to his routine, managing the convenience store with his wife, working as a delivery driver, and writing poetry and prose.

Nghinh Xuan