The Asian Studies program in the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures hosted a talk by author Lili Zeng on Wednesday, October 9 in the Walsh Library Beck Rooms. Zeng, who holds a Ph.D.
in Biophysics from McGill University, appeared at Seton Hall to discuss her new book, Dear Haider.

The book follows Liz, a girl born in China and brought to Canada by family, now traveling
to Germany for a physics internship. During her stay she connects with the book’s
namesake, Haider. A gripping narrative of connection, the effects of taught prejudice
and what that prejudice says about us carries the book forward. Zeng’s presentation,
“Coming of Age in a Multicultural World,” discussed how this story of past romance,
a reconciliation of culture and the struggles of mental health is interwoven with
details from Zeng’s own life. Reflecting on her experiences after having moved to
Montreal, Canada, from her birthplace of Guangzhou, China, Zeng stated that this book
came from a prominent place in her heart and carries marks of personal tragedy throughout
the story’s interesting letter writing style.

As Zeng spoke, she highlighted an overarching theme of mental health. Both in the
book and in person, Zeng discussed how isolation from loved ones, the over suppression
of emotions and shattered relationships can take a toll, bringing us down to the very
depths of what we are but not without the hope to build ourselves back up again.

Zeng also elaborated on her future as a writer. Although she will be continuing her
primary work in biophysics, Zeng still writes as a passion. She mentioned she is in
the earliest stages of a new book, which time shall surely see bloom. Overall, Zeng
gave a compelling personal account of her own life and how the process of writing
acted as a form of self-healing, reaching into the audience’s hearts and taking them
along for a painful but nonetheless passionate tale.

Categories:
Arts and Culture, Nation and World