Taiwanese Authors Share Literature in Prague

Taiwanese authors Wu Ming-yi and Liao Hung-chi presented their work at the Book World Prague in the Czech Republic this week. The authors discussed Taiwanese literature and its relationship to the ocean with Czech readers. Wu Ming-yi introduced his novel The Man with the Compound Eyes, while Liao Hung-chi shared Fish Dreaming, a collection of 52 stories inspired by the sea.

Wu explained that translation and publisher interest are key to reaching European audiences. He noted Czech readers initially saw Taiwan through the lens of Chinese culture, but his writing about Indigenous communities offered a different perspective. He also reflected on how martial law limited connections to the sea for many Taiwanese.

Liao, both a fisherman and writer, draws inspiration from his experiences at sea. He hopes his work will foster understanding and respect for the ocean.

One Czech reader, Tereza, expressed fascination with the depictions of ocean life, as she comes from a landlocked country. The authors plan to continue writing as long as they can access the sea.