(If you are inside China, your may want the same version hosted on Tudou). This is 张燕 (Zhang Yan) performing "夜来香," a modern Chinese classic. I can't quite put my finger on why I think this video is really good - perhaps the confidence projected by 张燕. In English, "夜来香" means "evening primrose," a flower that opens in the evening. The Chinese characters literally mean … [Read more...] about “夜来香” (“Evening Primrose”), a scent of modern Chinese history
culture
在那遥远的地方 (In That Distant Place), a Pipa, Erhu, and Dizi trio
在那遥远的地方 (In That Distant Place) is a very popular folk song written in 1939. Over the years, this song has taken on many forms. Chinese, old or young, all know it. Below is a composition by 马九越 using the pipa, dizi, and erhu instruments. Occasionally I get asked what are some Chinese values. This is an example, I think. My grandparents, my parents, and people of my … [Read more...] about 在那遥远的地方 (In That Distant Place), a Pipa, Erhu, and Dizi trio
Chen Sisi (陈思思): Dear Chinese People (亲亲的中国人)
It is a patriotic song, as the title should make it all apparent - "Dear Chinese People." I liked this video for its imagery. The majority of the Chinese people are proud and very forward looking for the progress China has made in the last three decades. This video sums up that sentiment rather well. I know this type of videos may not sit well with many Westerners - because … [Read more...] about Chen Sisi (陈思思): Dear Chinese People (亲亲的中国人)
Convergence of Eastern and Western Collectivism
My high school political science teacher said once, that the political spectrum is not linear, but rather circular. If one go far enough toward one extreme, one circle back from the other extreme. So it is with the polarity of Western Individualism and Eastern Collectivism. Where the West has often maintained a tradition of individualistic accomplishments and thoughts, the … [Read more...] about Convergence of Eastern and Western Collectivism
The Karate Kid – the biggest modern movie co-production thus far between an American studio and China
People should go watch the new karate Kid! It's a cool movie featuring some awesome martial art as well as a beautiful travelogue featuring scenes from all over China. Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith give a performance that practically guarantees a sequel. Some people might complain that the movie is too long ... or that it's got a misleading title. I personally think if … [Read more...] about The Karate Kid – the biggest modern movie co-production thus far between an American studio and China