Blurred lines of influence in world of letters

Earlier this month, I was in Guangzhou for a forum on modern literature. The participants hailed mostly from academic institutions and media organizations, but you wouldn't know that if you had only heard their self-introductions. They sounded like freelancers.

It drew my attention. The event was organized by Southern Metropolis Daily, one of the country's most influential newspapers. Like the newspaper itself, the literary forum and subsequent awards reflect its independent values.

The award carries the implication that your achievement is above the froth of political correctness or power politics. Of course, it has its own politics, but compared with the alternatives, it is fair and transparent. All the jurors' decisions are published, as well as their debate transcripts.