Goldsmiths pays tribute to Zhe Wang

Dr Francis Gilbert, Senior Lecturer in the School of Mind, Body and Society at Goldsmiths, University of London pays tribute to Zhe Wang.

We are devasted by the loss of Zhe Wang, who was a wonderful student, a remarkable writer and a thinker who combined deep intellectual curiosity with creative courage and approached writing as a mindful practice. Her work blended Buddhist thought, imaginative storytelling, and reflective clarity in a way that marked her out as a unique and singular voice. She was preparing to publish her work, and we will honour her intentions by including her writing in a forthcoming Goldsmiths anthology. 

Zhe was joyful, mindful, and generous. She was deeply loved by her peers, who continue to speak of her gentleness, her humour, and her thoughtful presence. She made our community kinder and more attentive. Her classmates continue to mourn her loss and remember her with profound love, recalling the warmth of her presence and the inspiration she offered so generously to others.

We will miss Zhe always.

We send again our profound condolences to Zhe’s family who grieved with an intensity that expressed the depth of their love for her.

Her poem Ode to a Foolish Bee captures so much of what made Zhe’s writing distinctive: compassion, humour, gentle insight, and a desire to guide others without causing harm.

The exit beckons just above the pane,
yet she flits in vain, causing a strain.
A towel in my hand, the gentle guide,
trying not to harm, by her side.
In her escape, she set herself free.