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humanistic-focus

Chinese science fiction addresses universal human concerns such as globalization, technology, tradition, and justice beyond geopolitics.

1 chapter across 1 book

Invisible Planets: Contemporary Chinese Science Fiction in TranslationKen Liu (ed.)

Chapter 4

Ken Liu introduces the anthology 'Invisible Planets' as a curated selection of contemporary Chinese speculative fiction translated into English, emphasizing the diversity and complexity of Chinese science fiction. He challenges simplistic or stereotypical comparisons between Chinese and Western science fiction, urging readers to appreciate the individual voices and broader humanistic themes rather than reducing works to political subversion. Liu also reflects on the challenges of translation and the limitations of his own scope, encouraging a nuanced understanding of Chinese science fiction within its cultural and social transformations.