Ba Jin Study Room Unveiled at Xujiahui Academy, Celebrating 120th Anniversary of His Birth
Bookstores are not just places to buy books; they are also spaces where people can find comfort physically and mentally. Renowned writer Ge Fei described urban bookstores as a place where people can feel at home, both physically and spiritually. This sentiment was echoed during the unveiling of the Ba Jin Study Room at Xujiahui Academy, in celebration of the 120th anniversary of Mr. Ba Jin’s birth.
The Ba Jin Study Room aims to invite readers to delve into literature, read classics, explore Ba Jin’s works, and connect with the spirit of this influential writer. The space serves as a reminder that a city should offer more than just landmarks and man-made landscapes; it should also provide bookstore spaces that cater to the spiritual needs of its citizens.
Over the weekend, Ge Fei and East China Normal University professor Mao Jian, both esteemed writers, met at Sinan Bookstore as “honorary store managers.” They recommended good books to readers and engaged in discussions about the importance of bookstores and reading in today’s society.
Ge Fei and Mao Jian emphasized the idea of finding one’s literary time through a bookstore that feels like a home away from home. They shared their ideal bookstore visions, with Ge Fei likening his favorite bookstore to a “family-style” old house, while Mao Jian drew inspiration from train journeys to create a “green train-style” bookstore. Both writers highlighted the importance of creating intimate reading spaces that offer a blend of privacy and community for book lovers.
The joy of reading was a central theme in the discussions at Sinan Bookstore, with Ge Fei comparing the pleasure of reading to the uncontrollable impulse of growing flowers in his yard. Both writers stressed the importance of finding time to read and the fulfillment that comes from diving into challenging books.
As Ge Fei and Mao Jian shared their reading recommendations with readers, they emphasized the personal nature of reading choices and the value of creating one’s own reading list. They encouraged readers to explore different genres and authors to enrich their reading experiences.
In the end, Ge Fei reflected on the deeper significance of reading, suggesting that it offers a unique perspective on life and survival. Mao Jian added that reading should be seen as a joyful pursuit, akin to discovering shiny things like a detective.
Overall, the discussions at Sinan Bookstore highlighted the importance of bookstores as communal spaces that foster intellectual exchange and create a sense of belonging for readers of all ages. As cities continue to evolve, urban bookstores serve as sanctuaries for those seeking solace and inspiration in the world of literature.