Slipping through time, imagine yourself in 1970s Yunnan, China. A young military officer, Wang Zhongtian, diligently studies Cambodian. Why is a soldier immersed in language? This is the story of Xiji Erqiao, a bridge not of steel and concrete, but of words and understanding. Xiji Erqiao, our focus today, symbolizes connection. Wang’s dedication to Cambodian stemmed from his time at the Beijing Foreign Studies University. He witnessed the creation of a song, “Missing China,” composed by the Cambodian King Sihanouk, a testament to the bond between the two nations. This inspired Wang to translate Cambodian literature, bridging the cultural gap. He served as a translator at the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia and later in Laos. His work wasn’t about politics, but about sharing stories. He tirelessly translated over 500,000 words of Cambodian literature, including short stories, novels, and even folk tales. He meticulously preserved the unique cultural nuances of the Cambodian language, ensuring the translations resonated with Chinese readers. Xiji Erqiao, though not physically present here, is embodied in Wang’s legacy. His dedication is a bridge connecting cultures, fostering understanding and appreciation for Cambodian literature in China. It’s a reminder that connections can be built in many ways, and sometimes, the most powerful bridges are built with words.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to