George Lakoff and Evan Frisch began their article on 9/11 with the sentence ‘Language matters, because it can determine how we think and act’ (Lakoff and Frisch, 2006). This volume is based on a similar premise. It focuses on a particular kind of language use, namely narratives. Narratives have a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of the world and ultimately our actions. The chapters of this volume show how the analysis of narratives can elucidate China– Europe relations and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the complex and often contested nature of these relations.

In this concluding chapter, we reflect on some of the broader lessons from the volume related to the pervasiveness and evolution of narratives and the importance of responsible communication. This last point is increasingly relevant in the context of heightened tensions between China and the West. We also reflect on the wider significance of some of the questions that this volume has opened up but that have not been fully resolved within its chapters.

Pervasiveness of narratives

In a period of complexity, uncertainty and change, narratives are important for understanding and acting in the world. While not intended to be comprehensive in covering narratives in general or all narratives on Europe and China, this volume demonstrates both the importance and diversity of narratives. It also explores the diversity of approaches to analysing narratives and highlights their complex role in the contemporary relationship between Europe and China.