#Italy #Rome #Wang Jibing #International Writing

Poetry Beyond Borders: A Cultural Dialogue

On March 5th, a significant literary event titled "At Three in the Afternoon: The Global Resonance of a Delivery Poet's Work" took place in a cozy theater in Rome, organized by the Italian Writers Federation. This engaging discussion opened a dialogue between Italian and Chinese contemporary poetry, creating a bridge for intercultural literary exchange.

The spotlight shone on Wang Jibing, a notable poet from Kunshan, Suzhou, who is also a delivery worker. His poem, "At Three in the Afternoon," was at the heart of the gathering. Wang, alongside his translator and collaborator, Martina Benigni, a PhD student in Asian and African Civilizations at Sapienza University in Rome, shared their journey that linked them through this powerful piece. Benigni translated Wang’s work into Italian, which was subsequently published in the magazine Internazionale, significantly raising its profile among Italian readers and facilitating broader literary dialogue between cultures.

During the event, Natale Antonio Rossi, the President of the Italian Writers Federation, emphasized the importance of such gatherings. They enable literary enthusiasts from both China and Italy to exchange thoughts and appreciate each other's cultural perspectives. The Federation is looking to strengthen its collaboration with various Chinese universities to ensure an ongoing literary exchange.

Wang Jibing is recognized as a prominent voice in China's burgeoning popular poetry scene, having composed over 6,000 poems translated into multiple languages and published in five different countries. He described "At Three in the Afternoon" as a reflection of a brief moment of tranquility amidst a delivery worker’s hectic day. Since last December, similar exchange sessions titled "At Three in the Afternoon: The Global Resonance of a Delivery Poet's Work" have occurred at the Rome9 China-Italy Economic and Cultural Exchange Center and at the Mamiani High School in Pesaro.

In his hometown of Kunshan, the local government has initiated a program titled "At Three in the Afternoon: Walking with Light," aimed at supporting workers in emerging professions, drawing inspiration from Wang’s poem.

This event is a testament to the transformative power of poetry, serving as a vehicle for social awareness and cultural connection. It highlights how literature can traverse geographical boundaries, fostering understanding and appreciation among diverse cultures. With the continued efforts of organizations like the Italian Writers Federation and the participation of passionate poets like Wang Jibing, the potential for ongoing literary collaboration remains bright.

As cultural exchanges continue, the hope is to bring forth more dialogues that inspire creativity and cultural understanding in an increasingly connected world. The legacy of events like this one not only enriches our literary landscape but also reinforces the shared human experiences that bind us, regardless of our backgrounds.