Wang Jibing, a 56-year-old food delivery rider, has been awarded the Lu Xun Literary Prize, one of China's most esteemed literary honors, for his poetry collection titled Low Flight. The book, published in 2024, draws on interviews and surveys conducted with approximately 200 fellow delivery workers to capture the realities of the modern gig economy.
Wang, who began working as a delivery rider in 2019 after a lifetime of odd jobs ranging from construction to waste scavenging, rose to prominence after his poem 'Man in a Hurry' went viral in 2022.
Despite the prestige of the award—which historically carries a monetary prize—Wang maintains that he has no intention of leaving his job, stating that he plans to continue working until he turns 60 to maintain a 'down-to-earth life.' His success reflects a broader trend of blue-collar workers in China gaining recognition for literary works that document the struggles of the working class, a phenomenon that has seen other laborers like former courier Hu Anyan find commercial success.
While the media attention has reportedly caused Wang some mental pressure, he remains committed to his routine, insisting that the award will not change his identity or his dedication to his work.
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