To become self-aware, people must be allowed to hear a plurality of opinions and then make up their own minds. They must be allowed to say, write and publish whatever they want. Freedom of expression is the most basic, but fundamental, right. Without it, human beings are reduced to automatons.

The literal meaning of the Chinese characters for revolution is elimination of life

Tyrannies not only want to control your mind and thoughts but your flesh as well.

The Beijing Olympics represent China's grand entrance onto the world stage and confirmation of its new superpower status.

When history is erased, people's moral values are also erased.

I believe that the power of literature is stronger than the power of tyranny.

It is vitally important for me, both personally and for my writing, to be able to return to China freely, so being barred entry has caused me deep concern and distress.