Xu Chi

Xu Chi (许迟, 1914 – 1996) was a prominent Chinese poet, writer, and intellectual, known for his contributions to contemporary Chinese literature and his complex relationship with the political landscape of the People's Republic of China. He is particularly remembered for his influential and controversial reportage literature (报告文学) piece, "Goldbach's Conjecture" (哥德巴赫猜想), published in 1978.

Xu Chi was born in Nanchang, Jiangxi province. He joined the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in his youth and actively participated in revolutionary activities. After the establishment of the PRC in 1949, he worked as a journalist and writer.

"Goldbach's Conjecture," which celebrated the mathematician Chen Jingrun's dedication to solving a famous mathematical problem, became a nationwide sensation, inspiring a generation of Chinese people to pursue scientific and intellectual endeavors. It was seen as a symbol of the post-Cultural Revolution thaw and a renewed emphasis on science and education. However, the work also drew criticism for its perceived exaggeration and romanticization of Chen Jingrun's struggles.

Despite the initial acclaim, Xu Chi's later works and his outspoken views on intellectual freedom and political reform led to increasing scrutiny and criticism from the CCP. He experienced periods of political pressure and his writings were sometimes suppressed.

Xu Chi's work provides a valuable window into the intellectual and political currents of 20th-century China, particularly the shifting attitudes towards intellectuals and the role of science and culture in national development. His legacy remains complex, marked by both his contributions to Chinese literature and the challenges he faced navigating the political landscape. He died in Shanghai in 1996.