Wang Jibing’s life is an intricate blend of everyday hustle and profound introspection. Often described by many as a “deliveryman by day, poet by night,” Wang’s journey is a testament to the fact that art and expression can flourish amidst life’s many challenges. Residing in Kunshan, situated in East China’s Jiangsu Province, this 55-year-old has managed to strike a delicate balance between earning a living and nurturing his deep-seated passion for poetry.
Wang’s origins trace back to a rural setting in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. Education was a luxury he couldn’t afford beyond secondary school, leading him to venture into various occupations over the years. From being a construction worker, sand mining boat laborer, to a garbage collector, he donned many hats. Yet, amidst the chaos of changing jobs and life’s unpredictability, Wang’s love for reading and writing never wavered. These twin passions remained his steadfast companions.
Now, with the responsibilities of a husband and father of three, his commitment to his family is evident. The weight of financial responsibilities and an increasingly demanding work schedule might have deterred many from pursuing passions. But for Wang, every day was another opportunity to immerse himself in the world of words.
The digital age ushered in new avenues for Wang. He began sharing his poems on various online poetry forums during the early 2000s, gradually expanding his presence across multiple social media platforms. Recognition came knocking when Chen Zhaohua, the erstwhile CEO of sohu.com, shared one of Wang’s poignant poems on Sina Weibo. Titled “People in a Hurry,” this poem, born from a challenging food delivery experience, resonated with millions, garnering over 13 million views in just a week.
This episode, besides catapulting him to fame, highlighted the deeper challenges faced by delivery personnel and led to regulatory changes ensuring better rights for them.
When asked about his journey, Wang shared how his role as a delivery person has enriched his perspectives. Interacting with diverse individuals and witnessing myriad facets of life has deepened his empathy. For him, penning down these experiences and emotions in poetic form is a source of solace and inner tranquility.
Wang’s vast repertoire includes poems that echo memories of his family, hometown, and his introspections as he worked in different urban landscapes. A common thread weaving through his creations is their sheer simplicity, authenticity, and heartwarming sincerity. His words, deeply entrenched in the mundane and the everyday, evoke emotions that resonate with countless individuals.
Wang Jibing’s meteoric rise and his recent inclusion in the 2023 list of new members for the Chinese Writers Association signify a broader acknowledgment of grassroots narratives in Chinese literature. It’s a testament to the fact that authenticity in artistic expression holds immense value.
Wang’s story is emblematic of countless unsung heroes who, through various expressive mediums like writing, art, music, or videography, aspire to find a spiritual anchor. Their creations, unpolished yet deeply genuine, echo the sentiments of countless others, making them relatable and cherished.
As Wang continues his poetic endeavors, he paves the way for many more ordinary individuals to come forth with their unique stories, enriching China’s literary and artistic landscape with the timeless charm of real, civilian narratives.
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