"Observing humans and observing oneself yields a clear-minded starting point for literature"

Gao Xingjian's declaration, "Observing humans and observing oneself yields a clear-minded starting point for literature", underscores the fundamental components in the craft of storytelling and literary creation. At its core, literature is a reflection of the human experience, a mirror that both records and questions the nuances of daily life and the profound intricacies of the human mind. Xingjian suggests that the essence of genuine literary work starts with observation-- both of the world around us and of our own inner experiences.

The act of observing human beings involves a deep, understanding engagement with others, enabling writers to capture the diversity of human habits, inspirations, feelings, and interactions. It is a process that needs the writer to step outdoors themselves, suspending judgment to truly comprehend the intricacies and subtleties of humanity. By doing so, authors can create characters and stories that resonate with reality and stimulate a sense of shared mankind among readers.

Simultaneously, observing oneself is an introspective journey that anchors an author's external observations in personal experience. This self-reflection enables writers to explore their own thoughts, feelings, and biases, promoting a much deeper understanding of their own identity and how it forms their perception of the world. This duality-- looking outside at others and inward at oneself-- enables writers to craft literature that is not only relatable and insightful but also reflective and sincere.

Xingjian's quote recommends that this double observation is not simply the starting point of literature; it is a constant cycle that energizes the innovative procedure. By continuously engaging with this practice, authors can approach their craft with clearness and credibility. In an ever-changing world, this commitment to observation guarantees that literature stays a vibrant, crucial form of art, reflecting the ageless intricacies and realities of human existence.