“By observing and listening, we can begin to predict the shape of literature in the coming decade. Whether we like it or not, our generation will eventually step aside - and it is the young who will define the future of Vietnamese literature,” Thieu remarked.

AI doesn't replace people - it expands creative possibility

Half a century after national reunification, Vietnamese literature has undergone a profound transformation. Once focused on war and liberation, it has since embraced the renewal period and assimilated cultural essence from both East and West - resulting in a literary landscape that is modern yet uniquely Vietnamese.

Representing the new generation, writer Cao Viet Quynh pursues genres like fantasy and science fiction, blending Western narrative inspiration with Vietnamese mythology.

He believes young writers today have unprecedented opportunities, thanks to technological advances - particularly artificial intelligence (AI).

“AI doesn’t replace humans; it expands creative range,” he said. “It supports writers in research, world-building, character development, and accelerates both speed and depth of storytelling. If we embrace technology while holding firmly to our Vietnamese cultural core, this generation can create works that are both original and globally resonant.”

Cultural identity: The roots of creativity and integration

Writer Le Quang Trang believes that national identity is the lifeblood of enduring literature. Preserving this identity doesn’t mean clinging to the past, but rather infusing the Vietnamese spirit into contemporary storytelling.

He recounted a trip to China where he attended a performance of Yan’an, Yan’an - a play over 50 years old that still packed theatres with young audiences. They revitalized tradition using technology, lighting, sound, and advanced stagecraft. It was, he said, a masterclass in how cultural heritage can become fuel for fresh creativity - something Vietnamese literature should learn from.

“We have an endless reservoir of themes, characters, cultural and historical material. The question isn’t ‘what’s left to write,’ but rather how to write in a way that moves people, that brings the Vietnamese soul to the world,” Trang said.

“Today’s youth are well-educated and globally connected, but sometimes forget to listen to their own inner voice. For Vietnamese literature to thrive globally, it must return to cultural identity - not as nostalgia, but as a source of contemporary regeneration. When the Vietnamese soul is placed at the center, our literature can step into the world on its own terms.”

He also called for stronger support structures to help young writers not only survive - but thrive and reach wider audiences. These include a national strategy to promote Vietnamese literature through cinema, tourism, theater, and other creative industries; more creative grants, translation programs, writing residencies, and international literary forums; and reforms in writing and literary criticism education, helping young authors find their own voice and unique perspective - not just technical skill.

“Most importantly,” he emphasized, “we must view literature as a central part of cultural life. Young writers want to walk alongside the nation - with their words, intellect, and spirit of renewal.”

A new literary era demands fresh preparation

Reflecting on the journey of Vietnamese literature since 1975, writer Vu Anh Duc said now is the time to prepare for a new era.

“What I want to emphasize is that literature is movement - it’s not the static words already printed on the page,” Duc said. “We must prepare for a new age in Vietnamese literature.”

To help Vietnamese literature go further, he advocated for well-structured investment in literary translation - especially translations focused on specific historical periods - to offer comparative insights and broaden the nation's literary vision.

Tinh Le