Jung Chang: London, Exile & the Mother Behind Wild Swans

Jan de Vries · 2026-07-03

Jung Chang, the celebrated author of "Wild Swans," has lived a life that reads like one of her own epic narratives. In a recent conversation, she opened up about her latest work, "Fly," the profound influence of London on her writing, and the personal history that shaped her most famous book. Her story is one of resilience, exile, and an unyielding commitment to preserving historical truth. ### London as a Literary Home For Chang, London isn't just a city; it's a sanctuary. When she first arrived, the city offered her something she'd never had: the freedom to write without fear. She describes walking the same streets as Virginia Woolf and Charles Dickens, feeling a connection to a literary tradition that values individual voice over state control. "London gave me the space to breathe as a writer," she says. "It allowed me to tell stories that would have been impossible to tell from within China." The city's foggy mornings and bustling bookshops became the backdrop for her creative rebirth. ### The Weight of Exile Exile is a central theme in Chang's work, and it's deeply personal. She left China in 1978, during a period of immense change. Leaving her family behind was heartbreaking, but she knew it was necessary to share their stories with the world. "Exile isn't just about leaving a place," she explains. "It's about carrying that place inside you, everywhere you go." This duality—being both removed from and forever tied to her homeland—fuels her writing. It's what gives "Wild Swans" its raw, intimate power. ### The Mother Who Made It Possible The most emotional part of Chang's conversation revolves around her mother. It was her mother's courage and sacrifice that made "Wild Swans" possible. Her mother lived through the Cultural Revolution, enduring unimaginable hardships. Yet, she never lost her spirit. "She taught me that survival isn't enough," Chang recalls. "You have to bear witness." This lesson became the foundation of Chang's career. Her mother's stories, whispered in secret, became the backbone of a book that would sell millions of copies worldwide. ### Preserving Historical Truth In an age of misinformation, Chang believes writers have a duty to preserve historical truth. "Facts matter," she insists. "They are the only defense against tyranny." Her meticulous research and dedication to accuracy have made her a trusted voice in historical writing. She doesn't shy away from the messy, painful parts of history. Instead, she confronts them head-on, believing that understanding the past is the only way to build a better future. ### Key Takeaways from Jung Chang's Journey - **Embrace your roots:** Your background, no matter how painful, is a source of strength. - **Find your sanctuary:** A place of freedom can unlock your creative potential. - **Bear witness:** Sharing your truth can inspire and educate others. - **Fight for accuracy:** In a world of noise, facts are your anchor. ### A Legacy of Courage Jung Chang's work continues to resonate because it speaks to universal themes: family, loss, and the search for identity. Her latest book, "Fly," expands on these ideas, exploring how individuals navigate oppressive systems. Through it all, she remains a beacon of integrity. Her story reminds us that even in exile, we can find a home in our words. And that the greatest gift we can give is to tell the truth, no matter the cost.