Abla Rifai dressed up in hanfu. Photo: Li Zheng
Experiencer
By Abla Rifai
Attending the 2023 Chinese International Online Literature Week event has been a remarkable experience that has deepened my appreciation for Chinese literature, exposed me to diverse writers and representatives of big organizations such as game companies and movies organizations. This event, showcasing the best of China's online literary scene, offered a unique platform for writers and readers to come together, exchange ideas, and celebrate the power of storytelling.
The event was a vibrant and immersive celebration of literature, featuring panels, discussions, readings, and interactive sessions. From the moment I entered the venue, I was greeted by an atmosphere buzzing with creativity and excitement. I got more excited when they asked me to change into Hanfu of "Swordsman Love 3" and I really felt myself like a character coming from a Chinese movie. The Hanfu was so beautiful that I couldn't hide my emotions.
In the main stage area of the industry Expo, the Electronic Soul Network offered a trial experience of the Hangzhou Asian Games esports "Dream Three Kingdoms 2" project. My friends were enjoying participating in this game and at the end of it they received some gifts.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to deliver speech about my opinion attending this expo. I was a little bit nervous but I enjoyed it. People were surprised that I can speak fluent Chinese, as I told them that it started when I returned to my country during the epidemic and couldn't forget my life when I was in Hangzhou, which I consider my second hometown. So I started watching Chinese movies, reading books like My beautiful encounter with China and attending online course called "China Overview" to learn Chinese. I found out that Chinese culture is unique and interesting and I wanted to learn more about it. Then, I worked in Chinese companies in my country to practice more the language and get closer to Chinese people. Truly it was hard in the beginning but when you like something and you put your heart into it, you will succeed.
In this event as an international student in China I had the chance to communicate with Chinese people, feeling free to talk with them about their wonderful country and my love to their culture as well as had the opportunity to play so many games. I also gained a deeper appreciation for the Chinese literary tradition and its unique storytelling techniques. I' m so grateful to attend this event and I will never forget this experience.