Chengdu - The Chengdu World Science Fiction Convention swung its doors open, spotlighting China's acclaimed science fiction author Liu Cixin. Best known for his seminal "Three-Body Problem" trilogy, Liu discussed his perspective on science fiction, human destiny, and technological advancements.

About the Science Fiction Convention

Liu was impressed with the convention's futuristic venue. 

He described the Chengdu Science Fiction Museum as "resembling a spaceship from another world docked by the water's edge." 

Sci-fi author Liu Cixin accepted iChongqing's interview. (Photo/Deng Yan)

He added, "I have attended more than one world science fiction convention in the past, and this convention's venue is undeniably the most futuristic."

The Chengdu Science Fiction Museum is like a spaceship from another world, docked by the water's edge. (Photo/Chengdu Science Fiction Association)

Reflecting on the moment he found out Chengdu would host the convention, Liu had mixed feelings. "I was in my hometown of Shanxi when I heard the news. I felt a surge of joy but also a touch of concern. I wasn't sure how long the effects of the global pandemic would linger or if it would jeopardize the convention. Thankfully, we've moved past that uncertain period."

As a science fiction author closely tied to Chengdu, Liu sees hosting the World Science Fiction Convention as a significant milestone worthy of a special chapter in the history of Chinese science fiction.

He elaborated, "Chengdu has long been a hub for science fiction in China. Numerous Chinese science fiction writers and works have their roots in Chengdu, some of which have gained national acclaim. The city even hosted an international science fiction conference back in 1997. With the arrival of the world's premier science fiction event, it feels like a natural evolution. This will spark increased dialogue among Chinese science fiction authors, readers, and professionals in the field, as well as fans around the globe. Science fiction literature has transformed dramatically over the years, and this convention serves as a platform to delve deeper into those changes, fortifying a culture founded on technology and imagination for a brighter future."

About Creative Endeavors

Liu emphasized that the era itself is the most profound driver of science fiction's development. 

Science fiction thrives in countries where technology and the economy have flourished. Currently, Chinese science fiction is characterized by a diverse array of styles and abundant creativity. 

Liu remarked, "This is a healthy development model, but I don't believe we are currently in the golden age of Chinese science fiction. We still lack influential authors and works. In contrast, I see faster development and brighter prospects for Chinese science fiction in film and television. Perhaps in the near future, Chinese science fiction in the visual medium will lead the world."

About the Future

Liu emphasized the unique role of science fiction in literature. In this genre, humanity frequently rises above racial, national, and religious divides to form a "community of destiny." "The aspirations and fears portrayed in science fiction are universal, compelling us all to confront them collectively."

Liu added, "Our Earth is just a tiny speck in the vast universe. Faced with global crises, our petty differences fade away." He sees science fiction literature as a unifying force that can bridge different cultures across the globe, a notion exemplified by the global nature of the science fiction convention.

Acknowledging that hope is often concealed within crises, Liu pointed out that game-changing technological advancements could suddenly alter the trajectory of events. He concluded, "History doesn't move in a straight, predictable line. The technology that will truly shape the future may not even be artificial intelligence."

On a lighter note, Liu shared his fascination with space exploration technology and flirted with the thought of becoming a space tourist. He humorously noted, "If I went to space now, it could become headline news, and I prefer to avoid the limelight. Maybe in a few years, when I've faded from public memory and space travel is more routine, I'll discreetly buy a ticket."

When asked what message he would send to humanity a century from now, Liu responded, "I hope that they will outperform our generation in every possible way—whether it's in their quality of life, their accomplishments, or the extent of human existence during their era. That's my aspiration, and I believe it will come to pass."