Canadian writer of Chinese origin, Sijan Jey Zhao, has recently taken to Instagram to share a powerful message about the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine. On May 28th, she posted a photo of her book «Iron Widow» lying among the ruins of a printing house in Kharkiv, destroyed by Russian occupiers. The photo has since gone viral, making headlines and stirring up a storm of emotions among readers.
The book, which was published in 2018, is a work of fiction that follows the story of a young girl who must overcome gender stereotypes and cultural norms to become a powerful warrior and fight against the enemy. The title, «Iron Widow,» holds a deeper meaning, representing the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity.
For Zhao, the destruction of her book and the printing house in which it was produced is more than just a loss of material possessions. It is a symbolic representation of the continuous struggle for freedom and justice in Ukraine. As a writer, she understands the power of words and the impact they can have on society. Losing her book, which carries a powerful message of empowerment and female strength, is a hard blow to bear.
In her Instagram post, Zhao expresses her deep sorrow and anger at the senseless destruction caused by the Russian occupiers. She writes, «My heart breaks seeing this. A book that I poured all my heart and soul into, destroyed by those who try to silence voices of freedom and resistance. But they will not succeed. My words will continue to live on, even if they try to burn them.»
Her words have resonated with readers all over the world, with many expressing their support and admiration for her bravery in speaking out against the injustice. The photo has also sparked a conversation about the power of literature and the importance of preserving freedom of expression.
Zhao’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the impact that individuals, no matter how small, can have in creating change. As a writer of Chinese descent, she understands the struggles of living under an authoritarian regime and has used her voice to shed light on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The response to Zhao’s post has been overwhelming, with readers praising her for her courage and resilience. Many have also expressed their desire to read her book, not only to support her as an author but also to understand the reality of the situation in Ukraine.
As tensions continue to rise in Eastern Ukraine, Zhao’s post serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against oppression and fighting for what we believe in. Her words and her book will continue to serve as a source of inspiration and strength for those who are caught in the middle of the conflict.
In conclusion, Sijan Jey Zhao’s Instagram post has not only shed light on the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine but has also reminded us of the power of words and the importance of freedom of expression. Her book, «Iron Widow,» stands as a symbol of resilience and resistance, and her words have sparked a global conversation about the importance of standing up against injustice.
