Chapter 1: Historical Milestones and Resilience

Jiang Minhui emerged victorious, clinching the gold medal in the women’s individual epee event at the Paris Olympics. This achievement marked a historic moment as it was the first medal for the Hong Kong team in these Olympic Games, and it also established fencing as the first sport to secure gold medals in consecutive Olympics.

In 1892, a pivotal year unfolded as the esteemed French educator Pierre de Coubertin embarked on a mission to revive the Olympics. Amidst a world rife with change and challenges, people yearned for a significant event that could unite individuals across nations and races. Mr. Coubertin recognized this deep longing for unity and peace and was determined to breathe life back into the dormant Olympic Games.

He tirelessly traveled between nations, passionately advocating for the Olympic spirit and its values. Despite facing skepticism and numerous hurdles, he remained undeterred. His unwavering determination reflected his commitment to his vision, while his impassioned speeches conveyed his hope for a brighter future.

To realize his ambitious goal, Mr. Coubertin dedicated himself with an intensity that was extraordinary. He devoted countless hours to meticulously planning every aspect of the Games and sought funding from various sources to ensure the Olympics would be presented to the world in an exemplary manner. His relentless dedication was not for personal recognition but rather for the collective good of humanity.

At last, through his tireless efforts, the Olympic flame was rekindled, illuminating the hearts of people worldwide. In that moment, cheers erupted, and tears of joy flowed freely. It symbolized not just the revival of a sporting event, but also a profound emblem of humanity’s quest for peace, friendship, and progress.

In recent months, following the implementation of the National Security Law in Hong Kong, I have found myself resorting to magical realism in my writing as a means of navigating through complex challenges. This situation brings to mind the concept of "Hong Kong Foot." During the Opium War, British soldiers stationed in Hong Kong frequently suffered from fungal infections due to the humid climate, a condition that was dubbed "Hong Kong Foot" by British physicians.

Employing writing techniques akin to “Hong Kong Foot” to satirize current phenomena could easily lead to conflicts with the National Security Law, resulting in unwarranted repercussions. Consequently, magical realism has emerged as the most fitting approach for my storytelling at this time.

Recently, I have drawn inspiration from two dear friends, Budget Girl and Master Chen, incorporating them into my narratives. My aim is to encapsulate the history I have witnessed in mainland China since 1980, showcasing the joys and sorrows of diverse characters through various magical events across different eras and locations. This approach not only chronicles my life experiences but also helps me sidestep political sensitivities.

Reflecting on Gabriel García Márquez (1927–2014), a Colombian literary icon synonymous with magical realism, he is credited with revitalizing Latin American literature. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982 for works like “One Hundred Years of Solitude” and “Love in the Time of Cholera,” his stories often intertwine realistic depictions of daily life with fantastical elements, filled with humor, intricate details, and striking distortions.

Additionally, consider Mikhail Afanasyevich Bulgakov (1891 - 1940), a Soviet playwright and author often referred to as the "father of magical realism." His works faced significant criticism during his lifetime, and many were banned from publication or performance. It wasn't until decades after his death that his contributions gained recognition. His notable works include "The White Guard," "The Master and Margarita," and various other plays and novellas.

Magical realism serves as a narrative form that marries the real with the fantastical. Through this lens, writers present a world where reality and imagination coalesce, imbuing their stories with unique charm and complexity. Other notable authors within this genre include Chinese writer Mo Yan, known for novels such as "Frog" and "Big Breasts and Wide Hips."

Critical realism is often expressed through exaggerated and surreal techniques to critique social realities, particularly in authoritarian states. Writers can employ fantastical elements as veiled criticisms of political landscapes, navigating the dangers of direct governmental critique by utilizing allegorical and metaphorical storytelling techniques.

I believe that magical elements grant authors a relatively liberated space to explore spiritual independence and cultural emancipation within fictional realms. Many works in this genre seamlessly blend local myths with modern literary techniques, illustrating the cultural clash and integration that occur under authoritarian regimes.

In summary, the rise of magical realism in authoritarian contexts often reflects the authors' desire to articulate dissent and contemplation on political and cultural repression through imaginative narratives. This literary style serves as a powerful means of expression.

The remarkable legacies of magical realist writers like Gabriel García Márquez and Pierre de Coubertin will remain etched in history. Their contributions demonstrate that the power of dreams knows no bounds. With steadfast beliefs and courageous pursuits, we can achieve the seemingly impossible. Their literary legacies and the restored Olympic Games stand as enduring symbols of human unity and advancement, encouraging future generations to strive for a better world.

Chapter 2: The Role of Magical Realism

In this insightful video, Ruth Ben-Ghiat discusses the signs of authoritarianism and how to recognize them in contemporary society.

This video explores modern authoritarianism and geopolitics, offering thoughts on a policy framework to address these pressing issues.