Shanghai Daily News

Li Ao, Taiwan writer and culture critic, delivers a speech at Fudan University yesterday during the Shanghai leg of his first visit to the mainland in 50 years. He left when he was 14.

Taiwan writer and culture critic Li Ao discussed Chinese language and culture yesterday at the Fudan University's centennial celebration.

He told more than 600 students and faculty that Chinese culture has a bright future, in spite of those who say it is too difficult to learn. In his speech he cited Chinese historical stories and later answered questions about language and culture.

Li, once nominated for the Pulitzer Prize in literature, is an advocate of Taiwan's reunification with the mainland, which he left when he was 14.

During his personal visit, however, he has made no mention of politics or reunification.

This is Li's first trip back to the Chinese mainland in 56 years.

Fudan University presented Li with a rice-paper-printed copy of "Dream of Red Mansions" and a set of academic works recently published by Fudan.

Li also presented the university copies of his own books.

He is well-known by mainland intellectuals for his satire, sharp commentaries and poignant criticism.

Li was also scheduled to visit Shanghai Shidong High School, the middle school where he studied before leaving for Taiwan. He spoke with Shidong teachers.

Li has addressed Beijing and Tsinghua universities in Beijing.

He was born in Harbin and grew up in Beijing. He moved with his family to Shanghai before moving to Taiwan in 1949.