As a writer, receiving a message about someone wanting to buy your used car can feel like the end of an era. This was the experience of Peter Hessler, whose agent, William Clark, received a request to purchase his Honda from Chengdu. The writer, Zhang Feng, even posted an essay expressing dismay about the increasing restrictions faced by foreigners in China, prompting a discussion about Hessler’s reporting during the pandemic.
Living in Chengdu, Hessler was aware of criticisms but chose not to respond to avoid further public scrutiny that could endanger his family. Despite the challenges faced by foreign writers in China, Hessler reflected on his time in Chengdu, teaching at Sichuan University-Pittsburgh Institute and reconnecting with former students from his Peace Corps days in Fuling.
During the pandemic, Hessler’s reporting faced criticism from both Chinese and Western audiences, highlighting the challenges of reporting in a complex and ever-changing environment. Despite the backlash, Hessler continued to document the pandemic’s impact, capturing the successes and failures of China’s response.
As Hessler left China and reflected on his experiences, he recognized the unique position of being a foreign writer in a country with strict controls on information. The changing dynamics of reporting in China, coupled with external pressures and internal challenges, shaped his perspective on the role of journalism in a complex society.
The story of selling the Honda, known as the “COVID car,” symbolized the end of a chapter for Hessler in China. As he transitioned to a new role as a track coach in Colorado, the parallels between coaching and teaching highlighted the importance of mentorship and guidance in different settings.
Ultimately, Hessler’s journey in China, marked by successes and criticisms, reflected the broader complexities of reporting in a restrictive environment. As he moved on to new endeavors, the lessons learned from his time in Chengdu provided valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of journalism in a rapidly changing world.
