≪我城≫(西西)의 긍정적 홍콩 상상과 방식

Abstract

As the new generation of population who grew up after mid-20th century acquired weakened sense of belonging to China, they became conscious of themselves as a Hong Konger distinguishable from Chinese. While keenly realizing this consciousness, Xi Xi tried to depict the new city and its people positively in My City. In order to do so, Xi Xi presented physical and visible objects of the modern city in close details, and described various issues aroused in the modern city. Such descriptions are introduced by the author purposefully, and stem from the confidence of generation brought up in Hong Kong's social stability and its economic development. Also, through de-familiarizing technique, Xi Xi offers renewed and familiarizing approach to the city and lives of the city dwellers. The usage of childlike expressions stands out among her de-familiarizing technique, which represents the novel's Hong Kong and the lives of Hong Konger in warm and positive manners. Indeed, Xi Xi is aware of the negative aspects of modern city. She makes mild-mannered criticisms to such negativity and efforts to emphasize the positive aspects. However, the matter of isolation/communication is considered critical even to her, and she repetitively points out the problem of isolation and the desire of communication. Furthermore, even though the hint of dark shadow over the city and its life lingers, the love towards the Hong Kong city or toward the human life itself encourages Xi Xi to make efforts to suggest positive prospect of the city's future.