Summer Online Book Club Explores Chinese Culture (August 10th, 2023)

Virtual Reader Group handout

Session(s) date: 

Thursday, August 10, 2023 - 4:00pm

The book, Eighteen Vats of Water, welcomes readers to the world of Chinese calligraphy while emphasizing the importance of determination and creativity. Despite calligraphy's potential waning popularity in the age of modern technology, the art form still possesses unique and inspiring charms.

Over the course of Chinese civilization, calligraphy has become a distinctive treasure of the nation's culture. It is not only used to communicate on paper but also serves as a representation of Chinese culture's ideological wisdom and spirituality. Chinese calligraphy is renowned for its ornamental quality, which is derived from the structure of the characters and the tools used to write them. The calligraphic tradition has been passed down for thousands of years, which places Chinese calligraphy in a special place in the world.

Eighteen Vats of Water is a story about Chinese calligraphy and the power of determination and practices. Written by Chinese American author Ji Li Jiang, the book tells the story of a famous calligrapher named Xianzhi Wang, who learned calligraphy from his father at the age of seven. Xianzhi Wang's father challenged him to fill all eighteen large water jars in their house with water in order to write decently. Despite initially thinking he had mastered the craft, Xianzhi Wang spent years practicing and eventually finished the eighteen vats of water, significantly improving his writing.

The book goes beyond the story of Xianzhi Wang. It also introduces us to Chinese calligraphy's cultural significance. Through the book, readers can gain an appreciation for the skills and discipline required to master calligraphy. Additionally, the book highlights the importance of perseverance and hard work in achieving one's goals. In today's world, where technology is ubiquitous, it is easy to forget the value of traditional art forms such as calligraphy. However, Eighteen Vats of Water reminds us of the cultural and personal benefits of pursuing such art forms and others alike.

Overview: 

Eighteen Vats of Water is a heartwarming tale that extols the virtues of calligraphy, as well as the enduring power of wisdom and perseverance. The story revolves around a young protagonist who is deeply passionate about calligraphy and aspires to become a master in calligraphy. Through a series of events, the protagonist learns that true mastery requires more than just talent and skill; it also requires steadfast commitment and practice. Through it all, the story underscores the importance of combining one's talents and efforts in order to achieve one's dreams.

Summer Virtual Book Club Explores East Asian Cultures_Eighteen Vats of Water

This is a form to confirm your participation for our summer online book club hosted by the U.S.-China Institute and Freeman Book Award on Thursday August 10th, 2023.

• 7:00-8:30PM (EST)

• Crystal Hsia 夏儀芬 Xià Yí Fēn

  Program Specialist, U.S.-China Institute 南加州大學美中學院

Chinese Calligraphy: Preserving Cultural Identity and Family Heritage

Chinese calligraphy is an art form that has thrived for centuries, embodying the rich cultural identity and preserving the essence of family and heritage. It serves as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese wisdom and the transformative power of determination and practice.

In the realm of Chinese calligraphy, strokes dance across the paper, each mark carefully crafted with a profound sense of purpose. This ancient art form is not merely an expression of aesthetic beauty; it encapsulates the essence of Chinese culture and values. Through its strokes, it conveys the wisdom and philosophies that have shaped the nation for millennia.

Family and heritage play a pivotal role in Chinese calligraphy. Passed down from generation to generation, it serves as a tangible link that connects individuals to their ancestors and roots. Families cherish the art form as a way to honor their lineage, preserve their history and instill a sense of pride in their heritage. The act of learning and practicing calligraphy becomes a means of connecting with one's ancestors, bridging the gap between past and present.

The power of determination and practice cannot be understated in the realm of Chinese calligraphy. Mastery of this art form requires years of devoted practice and discipline. The calligrapher must cultivate patience, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to honing their craft. Through countless hours of repetition and refinement, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, unlocking hidden depths within themselves. This process reflects the broader Chinese philosophy that emphasizes the value of perseverance and self-improvement.

Chinese calligraphy embodies the essence of Chinese wisdom, which emphasizes harmony, balance, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. It serves as a medium through which individuals can express their thoughts, emotions, and insights. In a world that often prioritizes speed and efficiency, calligraphy encourages a slower pace, urging practitioners to find solace in the beauty of simplicity and mindfulness. It offers a refuge from the hustle and bustle of modern life, allowing individuals to reflect and find a sense of inner peace.

The significance of Chinese calligraphy extends beyond individual pursuits. It plays a pivotal role in bicultural development and fosters a deeper understanding between cultures. As the China-US relationship evolves and faces its fair share of challenges, it becomes essential to find common ground that transcends political differences. Chinese calligraphy provides a platform for cultural exchange, promoting mutual respect and appreciation. By embracing this art form, individuals from diverse backgrounds can gain insights into the values and traditions that have shaped Chinese civilization, fostering a deeper sense of understanding and empathy.

Ultimately, Chinese calligraphy has the potential to contribute to world peace and humanity. As people from different corners of the globe immerse themselves in its practice, they become part of a collective pursuit of beauty, harmony, and wisdom. The act of creating and appreciating calligraphy transcends linguistic barriers, fostering connections that transcend nationality. It reminds us of our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of our world.

In conclusion, Chinese calligraphy serves as a testament to the enduring power of cultural identity, family heritage, determination, and practice. It encapsulates Chinese wisdom, fosters bicultural development, and holds the potential to strengthen the China-US relationship. Moreover, it promotes world peace and a deeper understanding of our shared humanity. As we continue to embrace this art form, we must recognize its immense value and preserve it for future generations, ensuring that its strokes continue to inspire and transcend boundaries.

Chinese calligraphy, cultural identity, family and heritage, the power of determination and practices, Chinese wisdom, bicultural development, China-US relationship, world peace, humanity