Eileen Chang: Connecting Cultures and Generations
Eileen Chang, a luminary in modern Chinese literature, continues to influence societal narratives and cultural discussions a century after her birth. Renowned for her realistic portrayals of relationships and female agency, Chang's literature resonates with an ever-growing readership, particularly among younger generations.
The “New Directions in Eileen Chang Studies Lecture Series,” launched in September 2022, exemplifies the robust interest in Chang’s work. Co-hosted by Prof. Nicole Huang from HKU's School of Humanities and Prof. Lin Pei-yin from HKU’s School of Chinese, this interdisciplinary initiative connects academic research with creative expressions. With the recent award of a grant named the “Louis Cha Fund for Chinese Studies andEast/West Studies” under the Faculty of Arts, the lecture series will continue for another two years, with an expected completion date of June 2028.
Since its inception, the series has hosted 27 lectures and attracted a cumulative total of approximately 4,950 attendees—both in-person and via Zoom. Remarkably, the audience engagement has exceeded 300,000 viewers on Weibo during live broadcasts. This success highlights the relevance of Chang's work and the effectiveness of digital platforms in fostering a broader dialogue around her contributions.
Additionally, the significance of Chang's legacy is being amplified by the opening of the Museum of Modern Chinese Literature and the exhibition of Eileen Chang's manuscripts launched by the Hong Kong Metropolitan University in November 2025. These developments solidify Hong Kong’s position as a key hub for Eileen Chang studies, making the timing of the lecture series especially pertinent. By engaging film scholars, playwrights, and journalists in discussions about Chang's work, the series creates a platform that resonates with contemporary societal issues.
In December 2025, Prof. Huang’s exhibition was restaged as the inaugural showcase for the newly opened Shanghai Centre of HKU’s Business School. This ongoing collaboration underscores the importance of Chang's work and will be part of celebrations as the Shanghai Centre officially opens in March 2026. This expansion into Shanghai promises to make Chang’s influence even more accessible, especially within the heart of a major cultural and economic hub.
Audience engagement strategies have evolved, utilising social media and digital platforms such as Weibo and Xiaohongshu to facilitate knowledge exchange. These avenues connect younger audiences with Chang’s work, sparking meaningful discussions on contemporary social issues. The involvement of micro-influencers and online communities creates an environment rich for dialogue, bridging generational gaps in literary appreciation.
Chang’s exploration of social themes, particularly regarding female agency and identity, resonates powerfully with current societal challenges. As scholars like Professors Huang and Lin dissect her narratives, discussions arise concerning rebellion against traditional expectations, reflecting the ongoing journey toward gender equality and personal autonomy. Such connections underscore the relevance of Chang's works and prompt reflections on how these themes find new expressions in today’s context.
In conclusion, Eileen Chang's literature serves as a bridge between cultures and generations. With the leadership of Prof. Huang and Prof. Lin, and through initiatives such as the “New Directions” series, her work continues to inspire new discussions. Readers are encouraged to look out for the upcoming exhibition at HKU's Shanghai Centre, as it promises to further illuminate Chang's extraordinary legacy in a vibrant new setting.
Visit https://www.virtual.umag.hku.hk/eileenchang100 to explore the virtual exhibition of Eileen Chang and learn more about her student years at HKU.