Can xue

Definition

Can xue, translated as 'literature of the trash', is a literary movement that emerged in China during the late 20th century. It is characterized by its experimental style, absurdity, and dark humor, often aiming to challenge traditional narratives and social norms. This movement reflects the socio-political changes in China and mirrors broader global literary trends that question reality and representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Can xue authors often draw on surreal imagery and fragmented storytelling to depict the absurdity of contemporary life in China.
2. The movement critiques the constraints of traditional Chinese literature while also reflecting the disillusionment and chaos following the Cultural Revolution.
3. Can xue works frequently incorporate themes of identity, alienation, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing society.
4. Prominent figures of can xue include authors like Mo Yan and Su Tong, whose works have gained international recognition for their innovative styles.
5. The term 'can xue' itself implies a rejection of mainstream literary values, pushing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society.

Review Questions

• How does can xue reflect the socio-political changes in China during the late 20th century?
  • Can xue emerged as a response to the dramatic socio-political changes in China after the Cultural Revolution, highlighting feelings of disillusionment and absurdity prevalent in society. The movement's experimental nature allows authors to challenge traditional narratives that often romanticize or overlook the struggles faced by individuals. By employing surreal imagery and fragmented storytelling, can xue captures the chaotic realities of life, urging readers to confront the uncomfortable truths about their society.
• In what ways does can xue incorporate elements of postmodernism, and how does this influence its narrative style?
  • Can xue embodies many characteristics of postmodernism through its use of fragmentation, absurdity, and a self-referential approach to storytelling. This literary style encourages readers to question established narratives and norms while reflecting on the complexities of reality. By blending different genres and employing dark humor, can xue resonates with global postmodern movements that similarly challenge traditional forms of representation and truth.
• Evaluate the global reception of can xue literature and its impact on East Asian fiction as a whole.
  • Can xue has garnered significant international attention, influencing not only East Asian fiction but also global literary discourse. Its unique blend of absurdity and experimental techniques resonates with readers worldwide, bridging cultural divides. As can xue continues to gain recognition through translated works, it challenges preconceived notions of Chinese literature, fostering a greater appreciation for diverse storytelling styles within global literature. This influence encourages other writers from East Asia to explore unconventional narratives, thus enriching the literary landscape.

Related terms

Postmodernism: A broad movement in literature and art that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by a skeptical, self-aware approach that often blends genres and challenges established narratives.

Absurdism: A philosophical and literary movement that emphasizes the inherent meaninglessness of life, often reflected in works that portray chaotic and illogical scenarios.

Magical Realism: A literary genre that incorporates fantastical elements into realistic settings, often used to explore complex social and political themes.