As part of Taiwan-Japan author exchange lectures, Taiwanese author Yang Shuang-zi (楊双子) engaged in a dialogue with Japanese author Kazue Furuuchi (古內一繪), discussing the creative process of her first Japanese-translated piece “Remembrance of Things Past in Taiwan (臺灣漫遊錄)" at Books Kinokuniya (Shinjuku Main Store) in Japan on May 28. The venue was filled with a large number of readers, and the dialogue was simultaneously live-streamed on YouTube.
The exchange lectures were made possible through a collaboration between the Taiwan Cultural Center in Japan and Kinokuniya bookstore, one of Japan’s most prominent bookstore chains, to promote Japanese-translated Taiwanese literary works and reach wider Japanese readers. Yang was the first Taiwanese author to engage with Japanese readers in person following the lifting of pandemic restrictions.
The panel discussion revolved around various aspects of the book, including the creative concept, character development, the interaction between the two protagonists, the historical background, and the narrative trajectory. Kazue Furuuchi expressed her admiration for the book. Yang stated that she did not learn about Japan’s colonial history until she attended university. From a materialistic perspective, she incorporated her favorite elements from the Showa era, including Taiwan railways and cuisine, into the novel. This provided readers with an immersive experience, allowing them to vividly travel back in time. She specially mentioned that she was inspired by three Japanese comic books including "Ekiben Hitoritabi," "Golden Kamuy," and "A Bride's Stories."
Yang’s creations encompass various genres, including novels, prose, and manga scripts. She has been recognized by Golden Tripod Awards, Golden Comic Awards and more in recent years.
"Remembrance of Things Past in Taiwan" tells the story of two women—one from Japan and one from Taiwan—who experience distinct cultural upbringings during the Japanese colonial period. By a fortuitous coincidence, they embark on a cross-country railway journey and mutually share their cultures and perspectives.