**Food Delivery Rider Wins China's Top Literary Prize**
In a remarkable intersection of the gig economy and literature, Wang Jibing, a 56-year-old food delivery rider, has been awarded the prestigious Lu Xun Literary Prize for his poetry collection titled *Low Flight*. This accolade is one of the highest honors in Chinese literature, named after Lu Xun, a pivotal figure often regarded as the father of modern Chinese literature.
Wang's journey to literary recognition is both inspiring and reflective of the challenges faced by many in China's burgeoning gig economy. He began his career as a food delivery rider in 2019, after a series of odd jobs that included construction work, scavenging, and selling goods at street stalls. His passion for reading and writing persisted despite his financial struggles, leading him to share his poems and essays on social media over the years.
The collection *Low Flight* draws inspiration from the everyday experiences and challenges encountered by delivery riders. Wang's writing resonates with a growing audience, particularly as it sheds light on the pressures faced by blue-collar workers in contemporary China. His work captures the essence of their lives, offering a poignant glimpse into their struggles and aspirations.
Wang gained significant attention in 2022 when one of his poems, *Man in a Hurry*, went viral. This poem was inspired by a frustrating delivery experience he had in 2019, where a customer provided an incorrect address, leading to hours of wasted time. The popularity of this poem marked a turning point in Wang's literary journey, culminating in the publication of his first poetry collection, *Man in a Hurry: Poems of a Food Delivery Rider*, in 2023.
When news of his Lu Xun Literary Prize win broke on July 15, Wang expressed a mix of excitement and anxiety. "I held my breath and felt extremely nervous… Once it was revealed, everything was settled," he shared with state media outlet Global Times. The media attention surrounding his win has brought both recognition and pressure, but Wang remains grounded in his identity as a delivery rider.
Despite his newfound literary acclaim, Wang has no plans to leave his job. He stated, "Financially I don't need this job to make a living, but I love the vibe of the work and it keeps me fit." He intends to continue working until he turns 60, emphasizing that the award will not alter his down-to-earth lifestyle.
*Low Flight*, which is set to be published in 2024, is a culmination of Wang's efforts to understand the lives of his fellow delivery riders. He conducted interviews and surveys with around 200 riders to inform his poetry, showcasing a collective voice that resonates with many in similar positions. One of the lines from his poems reflects this sentiment: "Who says spreading your wings means flying high? Flying low is also flying."
Wang's achievement is part of a broader trend in China, where blue-collar workers are increasingly gaining recognition for their literary contributions. Works such as *I Deliver Parcels in Beijing*, a memoir by former courier Hu Anyan, have resonated widely, becoming bestsellers and drawing international attention. Similarly, *I am Fan Yusu*, an autobiographical essay about the struggles of a migrant worker, captured the hearts of readers and led to overwhelming media interest.
As Wang Jibing's story unfolds, it highlights the potential for individuals from all walks of life to express their experiences through literature. His journey not only celebrates the resilience of blue-collar workers but also underscores the importance of storytelling in understanding the complexities of modern life in China.