Often discussed under the term Huayu literature, Chinese-language literature encompasses works by authors from mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, and beyond—across geographical borders and in both simplified and traditional characters.
Does this concept reflect a new understanding of writing across these regions? Has it emerged organically from literary and cultural exchange, or is it also shaped by broader social and political aims?
Three experienced literary translators and experts from Italy and Germany, Prof. Nicoletta Pesaro, Dr. Marc Hermann and Dr. Jing Bartz, will explore these questions, share insights from their work, and discuss emerging trends in this vibrant literary field.
Following the event, the speakers will be available for further conversation with the audience in the Networking & Signing Area from 15:00 to 15:30.
Panel Guests
Prof. Nicoletta Pesaro
A renowned Italian sinologist, professor at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, and veteran literary translator. She has devoted many years to the study, translation, and promotion of modern and contemporary Chinese literature, and has translated representative works by Lu Xun, Yu Hua, Ge Fei, and other major writers.
Dr. Marc Hermann
A well-known German translator of Chinese-language literature. Over the years he has systematically introduced a large body of contemporary Chinese-language novels and short fiction to the German-speaking world, including works by Eileen Chang, Yu Dafu, Liu Cixin, and Bi Feiyu. In recent years he has translated a particularly large number of Chinese-language comics.
Dr. Jing Bartz
A cultural curator and writer, and a translator of contemporary German literature. She has successfully planned and managed European tours for authors including Yu Hua, Liu Cixin, Wang Anyi, Liu Zhenyun, and Mai Jia.
Event Information
Topic: What Do We Mean by Chinese-Language Literature?
Date: Friday, October 9, 2026
Time: 14:00 to 15:00
Venue: Global Stage at the Frankfurt Book Fair (Foyer 5.1/6.1, A1)
Language: English
After the panel discussion, an open meet-and-greet and signing session will take place from 15:00 to 15:30 in the Networking & Signing Area. Readers, translators, publishing colleagues, and literature lovers are welcome to stay, speak with the three guests in person, and share their own reading experiences and observations.
How to Attend
Admission is open to anyone holding a valid Frankfurt Book Fair ticket for that day. Seating is limited, so we recommend arriving early.
Event Page
Copy the link below into your browser to view the official Book Fair program:
https://event.buchmesse.de/de/sessions/53962