Chapter 21: Cyber Philosophy

**Chapter 21: Cyber Philosophy**

Gu Qianli looked at the questionnaire, which had only three questions. It wasn't a personal interview but more like a page where readers could ask the manga artist two or three questions.

This opportunity for Lin Qingshan's written interview was a sign of his popularity, as "Edge Runner" had ranked first in the popularity poll among the four works in the Newcomer Grand Prix.

The first question Gu Qianli read was:

"Mr. Qingshan, what does 'cyberpunk' actually mean?"

She already knew the answer to this question from asking Lin Qingshan before. However, other readers might not know.

The term "cyberpunk" was new in this world and was an English word transliterated into Chinese. Most readers understood "Edge Runner" as a story set in the future year 2077, but the meaning of "cyberpunk" was unclear, especially as it was part of the work's title.

Gu Qianli moved on to the second question:

"Mr. Qingshan, what is the creative concept behind your work 'Edge Runner'?"

She looked at Lin Qingshan and read the question aloud, as if asking him directly.

Ito Ayumi, hearing the question, was also deeply interested and turned her attention to Lin Qingshan.

Although "Edge Runner" had a sci-fi theme, it was clear that the work was special, even carrying a strong sense of humanistic concern.

The story explored the rapid development of future technology, the vast disparities between the upper and lower classes in a capitalist society, and the profound changes and impacts of mechanization on the human body.

Ito Ayumi felt uneasy, sensing a tragic undertone in "Edge Runner," especially after witnessing the sudden death of the protagonist David's mother, Gloria.

However, she remembered Lin Qingshan had mentioned that the story was about the protagonist gaining powerful cybernetic enhancements, joining a gang, meeting the female lead, and rising to the peak of his life.

This made her feel somewhat reassured.

Lin Qingshan didn't seem like the type to write a tragedy, right?

"Uh?"

Listening to the question, Lin Qingshan was at a loss. He had drawn "Edge Runner" mainly to earn a living and wasn't particularly philosophically inclined.

But he could still share his thoughts on why he chose this approach.

"It's mainly because I noticed that most sci-fi works highlight the power of future technology and the benefits of interstellar exploration, but no one seems to think about what happens to individuals at the bottom of society in an era of rapid technological advancement…" Lin Qingshan said. "So, cyberpunk imagines the worst outcome in a future with powerful technology."

"Technology, wealth, and knowledge are entirely controlled by the elite and capital companies, who lead the world into the third and fourth world wars and divide the global power."

"People at the bottom become mere expendables and slaves. At the same time, technological advancement and material satisfaction lead to a lack of spiritual and humanistic values."

"Cyberpsychosis is essentially not just about excessive cybernetic enhancements overwhelming the nervous system, but also about societal pressure, mental exhaustion, and the result of excessive cybernetic modifications."

Lin Qingshan spoke at length about his thoughts on cyberpunk and "Edge Runner," then stopped.

He noticed Ito Ayumi's astonished and admiring gaze, and Gu Qianli's bright and appreciative look.

"Qingshan… your work will definitely make a name for itself in manga history!" Gu Qianli said firmly.

"I didn't expect Mr. Qingshan's work to contain such profound thoughts. It's almost like philosophy!" Ito Ayumi couldn't help but exclaim.

"Hehe…"

Lin Qingshan awkwardly chuckled, "It's… it's not that impressive."

"Well, how about I fill out this interview questionnaire after dinner?" Lin Qingshan quickly suggested, grabbing the lemons and mint leaves and heading to the kitchen. "I've made Thai curry crab, Thai-style clams, and satay beef! I guarantee you'll love it!"

"You two can chat here or have some… cola!"

"Alright."

Gu Qianli and Ito Ayumi responded, understanding his hint.

Lin Qingshan eagerly busied himself in the kitchen, and during this time, Gu Qianli and Ito Ayumi came in to check out his cooking skills.

Lin Qingshan's cooking skills were impressive, even to those who didn't know much about cooking. His expertise in handling seafood like shrimp, crab, and clams was evident.

This skill wasn't from any system abilities but from his experience cooking in his previous life, where he had accumulated about eight to nine years of cooking experience as a food enthusiast, not a professional chef.

Lin Qingshan wasn't always in the kitchen. He decided to take out some Colonel chicken nuggets exchanged from the system and deep-fried them, pairing them with satay sauce to satisfy Gu Qianli and Ito Ayumi's cravings.

After an hour and a half of busy work, Lin Qingshan finally brought out the flavorful dishes.

Gu Qianli and Ito Ayumi were delighted with the taste.

"It's so delicious!" Ito Ayumi praised with typical Japanese enthusiasm.

Japanese people often express their enjoyment of food in this exaggerated way, unless the food is particularly bad.

Lin Qingshan could tell that Ito Ayumi's praise was sincere.

Gu Qianli also smiled and said, "Qingshan's cooking is really good."

"Of course!" Lin Qingshan puffed out his chest proudly.

Thus, the three people and one dog enjoyed a pleasant weekend together.

(End of Chapter)