Beijing (People's Daily) - A migrant worker walked away in glory following the third season of the Chinese Poetry Competition on China Central Television on April 4, besting competitors such as a master from Peking University.
While Lei has never been to college, his opponents boasted a high level of education. Lei Haiwei, born in Shaoyang city in Hunan Province, works in Hangzhou as a food deliveryman.
All through the closing performance, Lei remained calm and confident, winning the crowd over with his ability and poise.
“It is not the most important thing for me to win. I would be satisfied enough if I could fully indulge in this process and enjoy everything related to poetry,” the 37-year-old acknowledged.
Lei’s fascination with poetry began when he was in primary school. His interest further peaked in 2004, where he’d come across a poetry book in a bookstore. He purchased the book that day and began a long journey of self-teaching in poetry.
Due to his humble economic standing, however, Lei couldn’t acquire more books. He got into the habit of visiting bookstores instead, where he’d peruse poems and pen them down. In time, he ended up with a 1,070-poem collection.
As a hard-working deliveryman, Lei would grab every chance to read, like when he was waiting for a meal or taking a break. Consequently, he often spent less than half an hour on meals per day, and less than 25 yuan.
Dong Qing, the competition’s host described Lei as a great man who’s conquered his life, emphasizing that hard work is bound to be rewarded in the end.
“The significance of poetry is not in rote, but in the truths learned along the way, and the feelings acquired. Lei is one who truly understands the value of poetry and we are all touched by his attitude on life,” read a post from a viewer following the much-admired ancient poetry competition.
