Zou Jingzhi expressed his gratitude over being longlisted for the International Booker Prize 2023, highlighting the recognition of his book, *Ninth Building*. He noted that the English translation allows the work to reach a broader audience, 13 years after its original Chinese publication, and he hopes it resonates with diverse readers.
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In discussing his inspirations, Zou cited an ancient Chinese saying about a child dreaming of his mother: ‘I dream of mother, she was like a gust of wind’. This sentiment reflects his own childhood experiences in the early 1990s, as he felt lost and struggled to find his voice in writing. He mentioned that his writing served as a means to process and let go of his childhood.
Zou revealed that he prefers using a ballpoint pen when writing, stemming from a cultural shift in China from traditional calligraphy to modern writing tools. He believes the change in writing implements has significantly influenced literature, as the tactile experience of writing by hand allows him to convey emotions more effectively than typing on a keyboard.
He wrote *Ninth Building* primarily between 1989 and 1993, revisiting it in 1996 to make minor revisions. This personal connection to the writing process showcases how his early experiences continue to impact his creative work.