Stereotypical China
We think in stereotypes. Whether or not we admit we think in stereotypes perhaps depends on how politically correct we are attempting to be at the moment. But the simple fact is that our brains are constantly lumping, associating and organizing information based on similarities and differences. In fact, I don’t think it’s entirely wrong to hold stereotypes…as long as we recognize them for what they are: loose generalizations that will and must fall apart when examining any subject matter on a more individual and detailed basis.
Before moving here, the stereotypical “picture” I had in my mind of China likely looked something like this.
A pagoda. With some cherry blossoms thrown in for good measure.
Indeed, there are many pagodas in China.
And if it’s the right time of year, they might just be framed by cherry blossoms.
The other image that would have likely come to mind prior to arrival is a bicycle.
The bicycle…the epitome of transportation in China. That is, unless you live on a frozen block of ice seven months of the year.
Obviously, there is not a pagoda perched on every corner in China and not all people (some, not all) have the coordination and endurance to bike on 6 inches of ice in -20 degree temperatures. And so, in my mind, the images that make me sigh an “Ahhhh, China” and introspectively gaze off into the distance are quite different these days. For example, what is now stereotypical is a slightly different form of transportation (in other words, a vehicle comprised of an unexpected number of wheels and/or unconventional materials).
Or the remnants of mutilated trees, evidence of a drastic approach to pruning that I struggle to understand.
Or trees planted unnaturally in a uniform manner, with a brightly colored swing plopped in the middle, with a girl happily swinging…and photographing herself.
Or the weather worn window of the neighborhood shop affectionately coined the blue store.
Perhaps these images do not possess the traditional beauty of the pagoda, and yet, they are more dear to me in that they reveal my China, the China I have come to (let’s be honest) tolerate in some moments, and downright love at other moments.
Oh I wish I had a great shot of the trees standing in perfect alignment. AND the “not so young” ladies planting them. I found that so interesting. One of my others favs were the over-painted, but really old little corner shops. China certainly does have it’s own unique personality that for some reason, you can’t help but love!