NMTL receives donated works on Taiwan

2015-01-12

Two manuscripts by late Taiwan literary legend Yang Chih-chang were donated Jan. 3 by a retired Japanese scholar to the National Museum of Taiwan Literature.

“A Government Writer’s Journal on Wars in Taiwan” and “Issues of Taiwan Independence—An Observation Following the Feb. 28 Incident” were given by Masaru Nishida, a former literature professor of Hosei University in Tokyo City.

“We are thankful for Nishida’s generous gesture,” Director Weng Chih-tsung of the Tainan City museum said. “This donation enhances cultural exchanges between Taiwan and Japan while improving public understanding of our history and literature.”

According to the director, Yang—a Tainan native born during Taiwan’s Japanese colonial era (1895–1945)—made significant contributions to the independent development of local literature as a writer and poet. He introduced French surrealism to Taiwan in 1933, and launched modern poetry club the Windmilll the same year.

Echoing Weng’s remarks, Nishida said he is impressed with Yang’s achievements and believes the facility is the perfect place to house the manuscripts. He added that he was invited to make the donation by former NMTL Director Li Jui-teng.

Having met Yang once in 1993, Nishida said he was deeply touched by his obvious love for Taiwan and passion for democracy. “I immediately invited him to submit articles to my monthly From One Point of the Earth,” he said.

Yang sent the two manuscripts, as well as another story titled “Subhas Chandra Bose—the Last Currie Rice,” to the magazine. “Published in 1993, the stories reflect his deep reflections on Taiwan’s social development after World War II.”

According to Weng, the NMTL is committed to strengthening its collection of Taiwan literary works going forward. “We will never cease striving to preserve this country’s rich cultural heritage.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=226072&CtNode=413)