In this volume, a collection of speeches and reports from the Fourth Congress of Writers and Artists, well-known Chinese writers (novels, poets, and dramatists alike) debate the future direction of Chinese literature for the 1980s. Originally published in 1982, this title is suitable for students of Literature and East Asian Studies.

Preface; Introduction; 1. Mao Dun: Opening Address to the Fourth Congress of Chinese Writers and Artists 2. Deng Xiaoping: Congratulatory Message to the Fourth Congress of Chinese Writers and Artists 3. Zhou Yang: Inherit the Past and Usher In the Future 4. Mao Dun: Emancipate Thought and Encourage Literary and Artistic Democracy 5. Liu Baiyu: Opening Address to the third Congress of Chinese Writers Association 6. Bai Hu: No Breakthrough, No Literature 7. Wang Meng: Our Responsibility 8. Ke Yan: A Few Words in Defense of New Poetry and the Literary and Art Contingent 9. Chen Dengke: Some Suggestions Concerning Literary Work 10. Liu Binyan: The Call of the Times 11. Lin Binyan: Man Is the Aim, Man is the Center 12. Xiao Jun: A Personal Statement 13. Liu Xinwu: Telling Mother What's on My Mind 14. Xia Yan: My Hopes 15. Ba Jin: Closing Address to the Third Congress of the Chinese Writers Association 16. Xia Yan: Closing Address to the Fourth Congress of Chinese Writers and Artists