• 2024-11-20

On October 30, 2024, the Chinese Culture Metaverse Center of National Chengchi University, Yuan-Liou Publishing Company, and the National Central Library’s Center for Chinese Studies jointly hosted the three-day international academic conference on “Trials in the Martial World, A Century of Jin Yong: Dialogue, Reflection, Transcendence.” The opening ceremony was held at the National Central Library. The conference brought together Jin Yong scholars, translators, and literary figures from around the world to exchange perspectives and research findings on Jin Yong’s novels and their intertextual interpretations across various media. Through the presentation of papers and roundtable discussions, participants explored the multifaceted value of Jin Yong’s works and their transregional dissemination. Key topics included the socio-cultural realities reflected in the evolution of martial arts narratives across the pre-Jin Yong, Jin Yong, and post-Jin Yong periods, and how Jin Yong's legacy has inspired young writers in the digital age. These writers have drawn upon and transformed Jin Yong’s influence to create contemporary works in genres such as xuanhuan (mystical fantasy), qihuan (fantasy), and xiuzhen (immortal cultivation), highlighting the enduring and ever-evolving significance of Jin Yong’s literary contributions.

In her remarks at the opening ceremony, NCL Director-General Han-ching Wang reflected, "Time flies, and the once-spirited youths who dreamed of wielding swords and commanding the world inspired by Jin Yong’s martial arts novels have now entered middle age. Yet, that chivalrous spirit and lofty ambition remain deeply ingrained in our hearts, transforming into resilience and a steadfast sense of honor that continue to guide us through the challenges and choices of real life."

The classics are timeless, transcending generations and inspiring both specialized and interdisciplinary humanistic exploration. The spirit and ethos of martial arts heroes are now being interpreted through various perspectives as they enter the halls of academia. The National Central Library, committed to preserving and disseminating knowledge and culture, is pleased to see enduring classics like Jin Yong’s novels serve as gateways to reading, guiding the public into the vast realm of knowledge. The conference theme of “Dialogue, Reflection, Transcendence” captures the century-long legacy of Jin Yong’s novels. Scholars with a profound dedication to "Jin Studies" from around the globe have gathered for this rare "martial arts grand assembly," making this symposium a truly remarkable event.

Finally, Director-General Wang cited a line from The Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils (Chapter 10: "Sword Qi Across the Green Smoke"), where the abbot Ben Yin of Tianlong Monastery states, “There is no superiority or inferiority in techniques; the distinction lies in the depth of skill.” She emphasized that the pursuit of knowledge, much like martial arts practice, focuses on inner cultivation and the refinement of character. Mastery of reading, she noted, is key to achieving greater intellectual perspective and discernment. Director Wang highlighted the far-reaching influence of Jin Yong’s martial arts novels on Chinese literature, stating that wherever there are Chinese-speaking communities, there are Jin Yong’s novels. This universal recognition has made Jin Yong a shared cultural language for our generation, underscoring his profound impact on the Chinese-speaking world.