Friday, October 28, 2011

Shanghai Girls

I'm now reading "Shanghai Girls" by Lisa See. Almost each book I read about China is a treasure, because I learn more and more about the culture. Reading these books also help me use the language.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shanghai-Girls/112244885454999?sk=info

The Trial

After reading the book “The Trial” by Franz Kafka, I again watched the 1962 movie produced and directed by Orson Welles. Now having read the book, I understood the movie a little bit more. What impressed me most was Orson Welles' use of shadows and huge sets. I'm told that Welles considered “The Trial” to be his best movie, not “Citizen Kane”. Both movies show the genius of this great producer and director.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

liǎn pǔ (脸谱)

 

My Chinese teacher gave me this wonderful birthday present (寿礼?). These are liǎn pǔ (脸谱), the facial mask worn by performers of the Beijing Opera (京剧). Thank you, Yijin!

 

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Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Chopsticks (筷子【kuàizi】)

 
Chopsticks (筷子【kuàizi】) originated in China during the Shang (商) Dynasty (1766-1122 BC) as a substitute for knives on the table. According to Confucius (孔子【kǒngzi】), knives were equated with acts of aggression and should not be used to dine.  Chopsticks then became the eating utensil of choice as neighboring Asian countries adopted its use and modified it according to cultural preferences.