Mo Yan has talked about his work and his reaction to winning the prize, with reporters at a hotel in his hometown, Gaomi City, in east China’s Shandong Province.
Mo Yan said, "I was very surprised to win the prize because I’m not among the most senior of the authors shortlisted, both from home and abroad. And I feel very happy. Some say winning the prize is a recognition of universal values by western countries. I understand those universal values to be truth, kindness and beauty. Only when you feel and experience these things, can you write literature that touches you and your readers. The local art and culture of my hometown and the cultural events I’ve witnessed have all influenced my work. Inevitably, folk culture has significantly influenced my work and style of writing. I want to express my gratitude to all the friends who supported me, as well as those who criticized my work. They’ve all helped me learn and improve. "