This paper addresses the representation of literacy practices among the ethnic Yi people of China in the film “The Love for the Yi Script” which is written and produced by the Yi.In framing this film ’ s plot, based on the screen writer ’ s individual experience , a “duel love” is revealed in terms of the leading male character ’ s love for the Yi script and his love with the leading female character .Drawing on critical reviews of the oral -literate divide by Collins and Blot (2003) and Street (1985), this paper examines how Yi’ s literacy practices are medi-ated by indigenous engagement in the oral -connected written classics as well as by changing life circumstances in the modern Chinese state .Influenced by Ahearn ’ s ( 2001 ) study of literacy , love letters, and social change in rural Nepal , this paper explores the changing “structures of feeling” and changing conception of romantic relationship in shaping the newly -forged Yi identi-ty that emerges through their literacy practices .