Zheng Ruolin

I was often asked how I feel about France now that I left the country after spending over two decades in Paris. My usual response is "It's a long story."

Indeed, the French Republic has long been a country of importance to not only Europe but also the world. With only one-twentieth of China's population, it has made achievements comparable with China's in many areas: Both are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council; both great nuclear powers; both "super powers" in literature — China with Cao Xueqin (1715–1763) and France with Victor Hugo (1802–1885), and China with Lu Xun (1881–1936) and France with Jean-Paul Sartre (1905–1980); and both great technology powers — China has four great inventions of paper-making, printing, the compass and gunpowder in ancient times, and France boasts "four new great inventions" (the fastest high-speed rail, quickest supersonic Concorde, most advanced nuclear power and first popularized civil internet Minitel) in the last century. Additionally, both are esteemed for their culinary delights — both Chinese cuisine and French food are cherished worldwide.

However, what impressed me most were the French people and many French friends I've made. Frankly speaking, the days when I valued friendship the most were when I stayed in France. I seem to have formed many enduring friendships. These friends have greatly influenced and supported me. They are mostly talented, honest and goodhearted. Despite our differences, they all share a genuine interest in and have cultivated sincere friendships with China.

The first ones that come to mind are two senior scholars who were older than me and have passed away.

The first is Michelle Loi (1926–2002), a sinologist known for her studies on Lu Xun. To honor Lu Xun and her affection for Lu Xun's The True Story of Ah Q, she adopted the Chinese name "Lu Ah."