Meaning: The quote by Jung Chang reflects on the changes in Chinese society and the relaxation of control over information and expression. In her statement, she indicates that despite her book being banned in China, she is still able to travel to the country and move freely. This suggests a shift away from the strict censorship and control that was characteristic of Mao Zedong's regime.

Jung Chang is a Chinese-born British writer, best known for her memoir "Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China," which provides a detailed account of three generations of women in her family against the backdrop of China's political and social upheavals. The book was well-received internationally but was banned in mainland China due to its critical depiction of the Communist Party and the government's policies.

The quote highlights the paradoxical nature of the current situation in China. On one hand, there is still censorship and control evident in the banning of certain books and the restriction of free expression. On the other hand, Chang's ability to travel to China and her observation of "deep fundamental changes in society" suggests a loosening of the strict control that characterized Mao's era.

The reference to Mao in the quote is significant, as it alludes to the period of his leadership, during which the Communist Party exercised tight control over all aspects of society, including literature, art, and public discourse. This control extended to the banning of books, imprisonment of dissidents, and the suppression of freedom of speech. The fact that Chang acknowledges the shift away from this level of control indicates a notable transformation in Chinese society.

It is important to note that while there have been changes in China, the country still maintains a complex system of censorship and control, particularly in relation to sensitive political and historical topics. The government continues to restrict access to certain information and closely monitors public expression, particularly online.

The quote also reflects a broader global trend of evolving approaches to censorship and control. In the digital age, governments around the world are grappling with the challenges of regulating information in an increasingly interconnected and information-saturated world. China's approach to censorship, often referred to as the "Great Firewall," has become emblematic of this struggle, with the government employing sophisticated technological means to control the flow of information within its borders.

In conclusion, Jung Chang's quote captures the nuanced and evolving nature of censorship and control in contemporary China. While her book remains banned, her ability to travel to the country and observe societal changes suggests a shifting landscape of control and expression. The quote serves as a reminder of the complexities of censorship and the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression in an ever-changing world.