Recently, the 35th Galaxy Awards, recognized as the pinnacle of Chinese science fiction, took place in Chengdu. The Best Novel award, which had remained unawarded for two years, was presented to Yan Xi for “The Era of God-Making.” In addition, British author and Hugo Prize winner Adrian was honored as the Most Popular Foreign Writer.
Since their establishment in 1985, the Galaxy Awards have served as a prestigious platform for showcasing Chinese science fiction to the global audience, playing an essential role in introducing new talents in this genre. In an exclusive interview, we sat down with Liu Cixin, the chair of the judging panel and a prominent sci-fi author, alongside A Lai, vice chairman of the Chinese Writers’ Association. We explored the evolution of Chinese science fiction, the essence of the genre, and its ability to resonate with humanity.
**Interviewer:** As the chair of this year’s Galaxy Awards judging panel, what do you think is the significance of the Galaxy Awards? How have they mirrored the changes in Chinese science fiction?
**Liu Cixin:** The Galaxy Awards are the most prestigious and longest-standing science fiction awards in China. Over the years, they have evolved significantly, honoring the traditions of sci-fi literature while embracing diversity and supporting emerging voices. Many, including myself, have been honored by the Galaxy Awards—my works, “The Three-Body Problem” and “The Wandering Earth,” both received this recognition.
Recently, breakthroughs in fields like artificial intelligence and aerospace have sparked creativity within sci-fi literature. This year’s nominees are younger and demonstrate a wider variety of innovative styles. We’ve transitioned from a marginal presence to a significant topic of interest, but there’s still a need to expand the creative landscape in science fiction, increase the number of authors, and enhance publishing efforts to grow our readership.
**A Lai:** Science fiction originally emerged in the West as humanity became increasingly aware of the importance of science. Although China began its journey into sci-fi later, it has now developed into a vibrant scene. Literary awards serve to highlight outstanding and representative works from a specific timeframe, honoring established writers while inspiring those who are still finding their voice.
Since the inception of the Galaxy Awards, we’ve witnessed a maturation in Chinese sci-fi literature showcasing a rich diversity of genres and fostering greater communication between Eastern and Western sci-fi. This year’s nominees included 56 sci-fi novels that reflect current trends and themes, addressing crucial technological and social issues. The awards have also evolved to include categories for best sci-fi game, best translation, and the most popular foreign writer.
**Interviewer:** What impact do you see current developments in artificial intelligence having on society, and what does this suggest for science fiction literature?
**Liu Cixin:** Sci-fi literature can often amplify human anxiety surrounding artificial intelligence rather than alleviate it. Many narratives portray AI as self-aware threats, seeking dominance or even the eradication of humanity. Today’s AI, developed through big data models, is quite different from the advanced versions depicted in sci-fi; however, they still pose risks. The most pressing concern is job displacement, which is often overlooked in traditional sci-fi narratives.
In Chinese sci-fi, we have a sub-genre called sci-fi realism, which examines reality through a sci-fi lens. I hope to see more stories that reflect the near future, focusing on the real societal changes brought about by AI.
**Interviewer:** In your work “Village Teacher,” technology and education play key roles. Is this a kind of homage within a sci-fi context?
**Liu Cixin:** Science fiction inherently arises from advancements in science and technology. The characters in these stories are typically well-versed in science, making it easier for writers to envision future worlds. Humanity’s progression heavily relies on science and education, which is why these themes are prominent in sci-fi literature. In “Village Teacher,” for instance, scientific education unintentionally saves the planet, though we may never know if such scenarios have occurred in reality.
**A Lai:** Regardless of how sci-fi evolves, its core remains humanity’s imagination and aspiration for the future. Lu Xun once noted that our vision of the future must be rooted in science; otherwise, it risks becoming mere fantasy. To create compelling sci-fi, one must value science, imagination, and the aesthetics of literature and art.
**Interviewer:** What do you consider the essence of science fiction literature, and why does it resonate across cultures and time, fostering a sense of connection among humanity?
**Liu Cixin:** Characters in science fiction may come from various national and cultural backgrounds, but that’s not the focus; rather, it’s about presenting humanity as a whole. In my writing, I strive for a broader perspective on human civilization, avoiding an overemphasis on Chinese elements.
For example, themes of collective sacrifice and resilience in “The Wandering Earth” are not unique to Chinese culture; similar ideas were discussed by American astronomers as far back as the 1930s. Western sci-fi also often embraces collectivist narratives reflecting shared human concerns.
Sci-fi literature resonates on a global scale because it transcends cultural barriers, portraying Earth as a spaceship navigating the cosmos and emphasizing our common identity as humans. This fundamental aspect is what enables sci-fi to promote cross-cultural communication.
**A Lai:** Before the industrial revolution, literature often focused on the here and now or looked back at the past. But today, we face an infinite future. About three million years ago, humans began creating tools, and with the advent of writing, history accelerated. We started considering our direction and the evolution of humanity and society.
In sci-fi literature and film, we often see characters of diverse races and backgrounds united by their shared experience on Earth. In the face of the cosmos, the distinctions between East and West diminish; what unites us is our identity as Earth inhabitants. This collective identity is why sci-fi resonates so deeply with readers worldwide.
As we acknowledge that one day the sun will extinguish and Earth may be consumed, we realize that to forge a lasting future, we need to explore humanity’s endless possibilities through a fusion of science and literature. Thus, science fiction stands as a vital direction in human literary history, with its current flourishing reflecting our desire for an infinite future.
**Interviewee Profiles:**
**Liu Cixin:** A highly acclaimed Chinese science fiction writer and chair of the 35th Galaxy Awards judging panel, Liu has received the Galaxy Award multiple times since 1999, with his novel “The Three-Body Problem” winning the Hugo Award for Best Novel at the 73rd World Science Fiction Convention.
**A Lai:** The vice chairman of the Chinese Writers’ Association and chair of the 35th Galaxy Awards judging panel, A Lai previously served as the editor-in-chief of Sci-Fi World magazine. His novel “Dust Settles” was awarded the fifth Mao Dun Literature Prize, while “Mushroom Circle” received the seventh Lu Xun Literary Prize for mid-length novels.
