Discussion on Narrative Reconstruction Ideas in the Cross-media Communication of Chinese Literature

Abstract

Digital technology continues to evolve, reshaping the dissemination patterns and industry landscape of contemporary literature, breaking away from the long-standing dominance of print media. As new media formats constantly advance, diverse forms of communication-such as films and TV dramas, audiobooks, and short videos-transcend spatial and temporal constraints, aligning well with today's audiences' fragmented information consumption habits. The industrialization of Chinese literary IP has been steadily progressing; however, adaptation quality remains uneven, and superficial content creation is widespread. Most cross-media adaptations of Chinese literature merely involve basic text transfer without leveraging the transmission dynamics of new media or upgrading content according to contemporary public aesthetics. The unique cultural connotations of original works gradually erode, constraining the popularization and long-term preservation of classic literature. Drawing on Jenkins’ theory of transmedia storytelling, this study explores a scientifically optimized pathway for cross-media dissemination of Chinese literature through three dimensions: narrative structure refinement, cultural symbol translation, and communicative tone innovation. By integrating current developments in the cultural and creative industries, the research identifies key industry challenges-including homogenized adaptations, weakened cultural essence, and inadequate medium compatibility-and establishes a practical framework centered on scenario-based adaptation, localized innovation, and preservation of cultural core values. The findings offer actionable theoretical insights and practical guidance for the digital transformation of Chinese literature, cross-cultural exchange between China and the West, and the contemporary inheritance of traditional culture.