Literature, Art and Practical Struggle (3 of 3)

Literature and art should be the bugle of the times, working in accord with the trend and need of the revolutionary struggles. One should not try to express his nostalgia by using today's literature and art to bring out the tune of the old times nor should one take a detached and self - protecting attitude, divorced from the practical struggles and hesitant in the face of the social current. An artist should associate himself with the oppressed people all over the world, seek freedom from the yoke. Let his works reflect the time, the society, the beauty of life and soul.

I believe the truth lies hidden in my heart. My works are as magnificent as the Chinese wisteria. My life is full and complex. Recently, I have written poems, essays and short stories, "Human Being Lives for the Search of a Meaning." I must take up my responsibility, lead a life in which I could love and hate as deeply and strongly as I like. I will do my best in speaking for the savaged, liberating the oppressed, hailing the light, and loving the life. I will not be unworthy of the society and the time.

I warmly love this world as well as humankind. I have the right to enjoy whatever was given by the creator. But when human rights and justice are im ­ pinged upon, I also have the courage and confidence to fight.

I have been involved in this struggle for a long time. I am still holding on to the sincere enthusiasm and sense of morality and justice that I have acquired from the past. Together with my long - standing companions, I am continuing to push forward, expel the evil, cultivate the good and honest, and strive for the early realization of a free and equal society. Whenever I think of all these things, a beautiful memory lingers in my heart.

Happy Lim is a Contributing Editor to EAST WIND. A journalist and poet, he was a secretary of the Chinese Workers Mutual Aid Association during the 1940's.

< 1 2 3 >