The construction of the Jade Emperor's head in Fengdu became a failed project due to frequent changes in developers, with each successive developer reportedly dying under mysterious circumstances. Additionally, the project faced financial irregularities, including illegal loans from banks, leading to its eventual abandonment and transformation into a makeshift space for local activities like night markets and KTVs.
The abandoned Jade Emperor's head project in Fengdu became a unique cultural phenomenon where locals repurposed the structure for night markets and KTVs. The building's openings, such as the eyes and mouth, emitted lights and sounds from the KTVs, creating a surreal and eerie atmosphere that became a local landmark and a symbol of grassroots creativity.
The speaker's perception of Fengdu evolved from a childhood filled with vivid, surreal memories to a deeper understanding of its significance as their hometown. This realization crystallized after leaving Fengdu for university, where the speaker began to reflect on their identity and the unique cultural and historical aspects of Fengdu that shaped their sense of belonging.
Fengdu's ghost culture, historically tied to its reputation as the 'Ghost City,' has been modernized and integrated into its contemporary identity. The city has embraced this heritage by creating young, culturally relevant IPs, such as anime-style representations of ghosts, and fostering international cultural exchanges, such as a partnership with a Mexican city known for its Day of the Dead celebrations.
The speaker's childhood experiences in Fengdu, particularly the surreal and imaginative environment of the Jade Emperor's head project, fostered a creative mindset. This early exposure to unique cultural phenomena and the ability to repurpose abandoned spaces for new uses instilled in the speaker a belief that anything can be created or transformed, a perspective that continues to influence their creative work.
The speaker faced challenges in writing a story about Fengdu due to the complexity of blending realistic and fantastical elements. Their writing style, influenced by diverse literary and commercial backgrounds, lacked a cohesive voice. The speaker struggled to balance the historical and cultural richness of Fengdu with the need for a compelling narrative structure, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction with their initial attempts.
与哈哥对谈的下期。
兜兜转转又聊回了故乡。
配乐:《淹没》作曲/制作 秦旷