Running Through Beijing
Running Through Beijing by Zechen Xu, published by Two Lines Press in 2014, is a work of fiction that delves into the complexities of life in modern Beijing. This edition, comprising 161 pages, presents a narrative that diverges from the typical political focus of Chinese literature, instead exploring the gritty realities faced by city-dwellers navigating the grey economy. The story follows Dunhuahg, who, recently released from prison for selling fake IDs, struggles with limited resources and uncertain prospects. His chance encounter with a woman selling pirated DVDs leads him into an unexpected romance and a new business venture, setting the stage for a series of challenging decisions.
Readers will find a vivid portrayal of an underworld filled with thievery, deception, and the harsh conditions of urban life. The narrative captures the essence of survival amidst the chaos of rampant drinking, prison bribery, and the oppressive dust storms that characterize the city. Running Through Beijing offers a unique perspective on contemporary issues through its well-drawn characters and fast-paced storytelling, reminiscent of a literary adventure. This edition invites readers to engage with a fresh voice in Chinese literature, highlighting themes of romance and resilience against a backdrop of societal struggles.
Official synopsis Publisher
Chinese literature published in the United States has tended to focus on politics — think the Cultural Revolution and dissidents — but there’s a whole other world of writing out there. It’s punk, dealing with the harsh realities lived by the millions of city-dwellers struggling to get by in the grey economy. Dunhuahg, recently out of prison for selling fake IDs, has just enough money for a couple of meals. He also has no place to stay and no prospects for earning more yuan. When he happens to meet a pretty woman selling pirated DVDs, he falls into both an unexpected romance and a new business venture. But when her on-and-off boyfriend steps back into the picture, Dunhuahg is forced to make some tough decisions. Running Through Beijing explores an underworld of constant thievery, hardcore porn, cops (both real and impostors), prison bribery, rampant drinking, and the smothering, bone-dry dust storms that blanket one of the world’s largest cities. Like a literary Run Lola Run, it follows a hustling hero rushing at breakneck speed to stay just one step ahead. Full of well-drawn, authentic characters, Running Through Beijing is a masterful performance from a fresh Chinese voice.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Running Through Beijing” about?
Who is the author of “Running Through Beijing”?
When was “Running Through Beijing” published?
What is the ISBN for “Running Through Beijing”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
