Analysis of Characterization and Humanistic Care in Underclass Literature in Urban Literature

Abstract

Jia Pingwa is a writer who cares deeply about the underclass, and his novel Gao Xing is another of his creative heights, following Ruined City and The Qin Cavern. Jia Pingwa tells the story of peasant workers’ journey to the city in this novel. This paper discusses Jia Pingwa's literary portrayal of the character of the underclass scavenger, his ingenious use of narrative perspective in creating the underclass story, and the social criticism and humanistic concern shown in his work through analysis of the text of Gao Xing and a review of relevant literature. Jia Pingwa uses an optimistic and humorous human attitude and comedic language and plot to present the tragedy of underclass life, reflecting the plight of the underclass people and their spiritual pursuit under urbanisation. The novel deeply reflects his close concern for the social problems that still exist in the prosperous city and his deep concern for the underclass people.