Chinese poets and writers are producing new works depicting people who emerged as heroes fighting the snow and rain disaster that have affected many areas of the country since mid January.

The Chinese Writers' Association and its branch organizations nationwide have called on its members to go to disaster-affected areas to interview and write about the disaster-relief work. About 100 writers have gone to Hunan, Guizhou, Guangdong, Anhui and other affected areas to observe and help with the disaster-relief.

"Literature should reflect people's true feelings and voice their thoughts," said reportage writer Jiang Wei, who went to southwestern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region to witness the relief efforts firsthand.

"This time, my writing will be really inspiring."

The periodicals attached to the Chinese Writers' Association will publish the poems and stories about those combating the snow and rain disaster. The association will also organize symposiums and poem reciting activities to recommend outstanding literature works to the public.

(Xinhua News Agency February 21, 2008)