There has been a lot of discussion and reaction in Taiwan recently over several television and film productions that examine themes like migrant workers. The impressive 195 pieces that were submitted for the eye-catching 8th Taiwan Literature Award for Migrants were narrowed down to 7 winning works following rigorous competition. With "Memories of Roses," by the Vietnamese author Vo Thi Diem Thu of Vietnam (武豔秋/ Wu Yen-chiu) won first place. The organizer promised to compile the winning pieces for publication and to use some of the excellent stories for future scripts.
Kang Ren Wu, the award-winning actor, was particularly invited to serve as a judge for this year's Taiwan Literature Award for Migrants.Photo reproduced from 決選評審感言
Themes of family, love, life, and identity are prevalent in this year's winning pieces. Among the more unique ones, there are a variety of Filipino themes, while the majority of Vietnamese participants are students, the Thai and Burmese works are more life-oriented, and the themes of Indonesian-related works are mostly focused on long-term care.
The 8th Taiwan Literature Award for Migrants winners revealed; the winning works will be adapted for films and TV series productions.Photo provided by the organizer 英雄旅程
Vo Thi Diem Thu from Vietnam took home the top honor this year with her work "Memories of Roses." It was also her second time winning the first prize. Chin Nyap Fong (陳業芳/ Chen Yeh-fang) from Indonesia, who shared every aspect of marriage via the story, took home the "judge's choice" prize.
The 8th Taiwan Literature Award for Migrants winners revealed; the winning works will be adapted for films and TV series productions.Photo provided by the organizer 英雄旅程