Grandson of Chinese author Lu Xun visits Hannibal

July 5, 2025 | By Muddy River News

From left, Hannibal mayor Darrel McCoy, professional Mark Twain performer Jim Waddell, president of the American Lu Xun Culture Communication Association Charlie Xu, Mark Twain Boyhood Home president Steve Viorel, Zhou Lingfei, Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum executive director Megan Rapp, Missouri State Representative Louis Riggs, interim Hannibal City Manager Andy Dorian and Mr. Zhou's assistant Ms. Qui Jianjing. | Photo courtesy of Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum welcomed Zhou Lingfei, the grandson of Chinese author Lu Xun, on Tuesday, July 1.

Missouri State Representative Louis Riggs attended the ceremony to welcome Mr. Lingfei and speak about Hannibal’s place in literary history. Hannibal mayor Darrell McCoy presented Mr. Lingfei with a key to the city of Hannibal, and a commemorative plaque titled “World Literature Holy Land” was presented to Mark Twain Home Foundation board president Steve Viorel by Lingfei.

This ceremony symbolizes a cultural bridge between East and West—between Hannibal and the world.

Lu Xun, widely regarded as the father of modern Chinese literature, used his pen as a tool for reform, much like Mark Twain. Though born of different nations and centuries, their works share a spirit of sharp critique, social conscience and humor that has made them beloved around the world.

This international tribute honors the enduring global significance of the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum and celebrates the literary legacies of Mark Twain and Lu Xun—two iconic authors whose voices championed social awareness, wit and the lives of ordinary people across time and culture.