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Welcome to this edition of China Lifestyle Journeys, the series that brings you chats, discussions and insights on all aspects of Chinese living. We will cover festivals, food, traditions, customs and much, much more. I’m your host Jocelyn… and I’m Mat, just an English guy with lots of questions.
So, Mat, what’s your big question today?
(Mat)
Hello and welcome to another episode of China Lifestyle Journeys. Today, we are exploring the fascinating world of Traditional Chinese Medicine, also known as TCM. Now, I don’t know much about TCM, but I do know that it has been practiced in China for thousands of years, but apart from that, I don’t really know anything else. So Jocelyn, where should we start with this topic?
(Jocelyn)
OK, so let’s start with the basics. TCM is an ancient traditional system of healthcare that considers the overall connection between the body, mind, and spirit. Instead of just treating individual symptoms or diseases, TCM focuses on promoting overall well-being and restoring balance in all aspects of life.
To better understand this, let’s take an example. Imagine someone experiencing frequent headaches. In standard Western medicine, the focus would be on finding a specific treatment for the headache, such as painkillers. However, in TCM, the doctor (or practitioner as they are sometimes called) would take a step back and look at the person as a whole. They would consider various factors like the person’s lifestyle, diet, emotions, and even the environment they are in.
For instance, the headaches could be seen as a sign of an imbalance in the body’s energy flow, or Qi (气). The TCM practitioner may explore different techniques, like acupuncture or herbal remedies, to restore the flow of Qi and bring the body back into harmony. They might also suggest lifestyle changes, such as stress management techniques or dietary adjustments, to address underlying factors that could be contributing to the headaches.
(Mat)
OK, I think I understand this, the TCM doctor is trying to improve my overall health, so that I won’t get any more headaches in the future. But what if I just want the headaches to be cured now, today? I don’t want to wait around for a long time, trying to improve my overall health. I just want... Can you get rid of this headache? Please help me. Can TCM help me in this situation?
(Jocelyn)
Of course, that’s the great thing about TCM. It can certainly help with immediate symptom relief, like your headache. But the main focus is on long-term well-being, so a lot of TCM treatments like acupuncture, herbal remedies, and other modalities aim to help with immediate concerns while also considering the underlying imbalances for lasting results. So basically, in the future, you’ll get less headaches. In essence, TCM recognizes that our well-being is influenced by multiple factors and aims to address the root causes of imbalances rather than just alleviating symptoms. Some people describe this as a more holistic approach to healthcare.
(Mat)
OK, so now that I have a better understanding of TCM’s approach to helping with overall well-being. I’m quite interested and curious about the specific concepts and methods that form the foundations of TCM. What are these key principles that I’ve heard about orsome kind of beliefs that guide TCM practices? Or to put it in a really simple question, how does it work?
(Jocelyn)
That’s a great question! TCM is based on two important ideas: Qi and Yin-Yang. Qi is like a special energy that flows through our bodies and keeps us healthy. TCM treatments focus on making sure this energy flows smoothly to keep us balanced. Yin and Yang are like opposites that need to be in harmony. Yin is connected to things like darkness and rest, while Yang is connected to light and activity. TCM practitioners use these ideas to understand and treat imbalances in the body. Their goal is to bring everything back into balance and help us stay healthy.
(Mat)
Wow, it sounds a bit complicated now. I think I get the part about Qi and energy, because I think we’ve talked about that in another episode. But this Yin and Yang? Light and dark? I don’t really get what you’re talking about here. I think you’ll need to explain it with an example.
(Jocelyn)
OK, let me try to put it in a simple example. In TCM, Yin and Yang represent two opposite forces that need to be in balance within our bodies. Think of someone who has trouble sleeping, finding it hard to fall asleep and feeling restless at night. This imbalance is like having too much of the active and warm Yang energy. To restore some balance, TCM may suggest introducing more calming and cooling Yin elements. This can be achieved by practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or drinking special herbal teas known for their soothing effects. The goal is to find a balance between Yin and Yang energies to promote better sleep and overall health.
(Mat)
OK, it’s starting to make more sense now. It actually sounds like quite a natural way of healing, combined with some good philosophy.You know what? I think I might try it next time I’ve gota headache.
Well, that’s it for today. We hope you enjoyed this episode, thanks for listening. We hope to see you again next time. Until then, goodbye. Stay wise.
Welcome to this edition of China Lifestyle Journeys, the series that brings you chats, discussions and insights on all aspects of Chinese living. We will cover festivals, food, traditions, customs and much, much more. I’m your host Jocelyn… and I’m Mat, just an English guy with lots of questions.
So, Mat, what’s your big question today?
(Mat)
Hello and welcome to another episode of our show. Today, we’ll be looking at the mysterious world of Tai Chi, a Chinese martial art1 that has becomevery popular all around the world. Now, I have to admit, I don’t know much about Tai Chi, actually before I came to China, I had seen people doing it in my hometown in London in the mornings. Sometimes you see old people doing it in parks in London really early in the morning. Then I came to China, I saw lots of old people doing Tai Chi in parks inChina in the morning. So you can probably guess my first question, before we look at the history in the details. What’s the thing with parks? Why do people always seem tobe doing Tai Chi in parks?
(Jocelyn)
Ok, I guess that’s a good question to begin with, so Tai Chi and parks, what’s the connection? Tai Chi is often practiced in public parks in China (and in other countries) because it provides a peaceful and natural environment that helps people relaxed. Relaxation andmeditation2 are important features of Tai Chi (and we’ll talk more about this later). Also, the peaceful and natural surroundings of parks provide an ideal setting for Tai Chi practice, as they create a sense of connection with nature (another important aspect of Tai Chi). And of course, in most cities, it’s easy to find a local park and they're usually free to use. That’s why Tai Chi is commonly practiced in parks.
(Mat)
OK, that makes sense, so it sounds like Tai Chi is more than just a physical exercise. You just mentioned relaxation, meditation and a connection with nature. Can you tell me more about these aspects of Tai Chi?
(Jocelyn)
Absolutely, Mat. Tai Chi is more than just a physical experience; it’s also a way of promoting3 mental and spiritual well-being. And the practice involves slow, flowing movements that are coordinated with4 deep breathing and focused attention. And this combination of movement, breathing, and mindfulness can help us to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mental clarity and focus, and enhance overall feelings of calm and relaxation. Tai Chi is also sometimes described as a moving meditation, because the focus is on being present andletting go of5 distracting thoughts. And as for the connection with nature, many of the movements in Tai Chi are inspired by animals or natural elements, such as trees or water. Practicing Tai Chi in a natural setting can help to deepen this connection and enhance the overall experience.
Welcome to this edition of China Lifestyle Journeys, the series that brings you chats, discussions and insights on all aspects of Chinese living. We will cover festivals, food, traditions, customs and much, much more. I’m your host Jocelyn… and I’m Mat, just an English guy with lots of questions.
So, Mat, what’s your big question today?
(Mat) Hello and welcome again to another episode of China Lifestyle Journeys. As usual, in today’s episode we will be looking at one unique and interesting aspect of Chinese culture. Now as you can tell from the episode title,today we’re talking about Mid-Autumn festival. Now, personally, I’ve got to admit that I don’t know much about this festival, except that it’s in the autumn (in the middle ofautumn I think – because of the name) – and on this festival – I know that people eat mooncakes. So I guess thatwill be the best place to start with the origins. So Jocelyn, tell me something about the origins of this festival.
(Jocelyn) Sure, Mat. The Mid-Autumn Festival has its originsrooted in1 ancient Chinese traditions and beliefs. It dates back over 2,000 years and is closely tied to agricultural practices and the lunar calendar. The festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, when the moon is believed to beat its fullest and brightest2. It was originally a time for people to give thanks for a successful harvest3, and to pray for the good fortune. Over time, it has evolved into a celebration of family reunion and the appreciation of the moon’s beauty. The festival has deep cultural significance and holds a special place in Chinese folklore and traditions.
(Mat) OK, so it’s linked to the lunar calendar, but you just made a point about“the appreciation of the moon’s beauty” – isn’t the moon like the same at any time of year? Is the moon more beautiful during this festival? And you know what’s the significance of the moon in this particular Mid-Autumn Festival?
(Jocelyn) OK, let me explain. While the moon itself may not physically change in its beauty throughout the year, its symbolism and significance during the Mid-Autumn Festival are what make it special. The full moon during this festival is seen as a symbol of unity, completeness, and family reunion. It represents harmony and serves as areminder4 of loved ones who may be far away. The moon’s round shape also signifies prosperity and good luck. During the festival, families and friends gather to admire the moon together, appreciating itsserene5 beauty and using it asa focal point6for storytelling, poetry, and heartfelt wishes7. The moon holds deep cultural and emotional significance, fostering8 a sense of connection and warmth among people.
Welcome to this edition of China Lifestyle Journeys, the series that brings you chats, discussions and insights on all aspects of Chinese living. We will cover festivals, food, traditions, customs and much, much more. I’m your host Jocelyn… and I’m Mat, just an English guy with lots of questions.
So, Mat, what’s your big question today?
(Mat)
Hello listeners! Welcome to a rather glamorous episode of China Lifestyle Journeys. Today we’re looking at the world of silk and its role in both Chinese fashion culture and even global fashion. Now silk has always been cherished1 in China as a symbol of beauty, elegance, and luxury. We know that, I think everyone knows this. I also know that silk has a really smoothtexture2, (Actually, there’s a word or an expression that we use quite a lot in English to mean really smooth – ‘silky smooth3’ , and we use this expression ‘silky smooth’ to talk about anything with food, drinks, material, when the texture is really smooth… we say it’s silky smooth.) So I know that silk is smooth… but apart from this… what makes it so special as a fabric for clothing? So Jocelyn, let’s talk about silk fashions and what makes silk so special for people like yourself, for Chinese women.
(Jocelyn)
OK, I think that’s a great place to start! Silk has been an important part of Chinese fashion culture for centuries. Silk is smooth, or ‘silky smooth’ as you say in English. It has a unique shiny finish to it. It flows and hangs in a really beautiful and elegant way. Imagine a large piece of cotton, think about how it hangs down. Now imagine a piece of silk hanging, you can almost picture that special quality, the way that it drapes4 so elegantly. Now that’s just the start. It also feels very soft and delicate on the skin when you wear it. So, because of these qualities, silk is perfect for making elegant shapes in traditional Chinese clothes likeqipao dresses,tangzhuang jackets, and things like that.
(Mat)
Hang on a second, I get the part about the silky smooth texture and the way it hangs, but what were those words you just said,qipao andtangzhuang... I think you’ll need to explain those before we continue.
Welcome to this edition of China Lifestyle Journeys, the series that brings you chats, discussions and insights on all aspects of Chinese living. We will cover festivals, food, traditions, customs and much, much more. I’m your host Jocelyn… and I’m Mat, just an English guy with lots of questions.
So, Mat, what’s your big question today?
(Mat)
Hello and welcome to another episode of China Lifestyle Journeys! Today, we’re delving into the fascinating topic ofguanxi, or as we say in English “personal relationships” in Chinese culture. So personal relationships hold significant importance in Chinese society, but I think that this is also an important part of many cultures, so let’s explore the differences. So first of all, Jocelyn, I think we should start with an example.
(Jocelyn)
Sure, Mat! Let’s create an example with a fictional story, rather than using a real life example. So imagine a character, a Chinese businessperson named Li and his colleague, Zhang. Li and Zhang have been working together for several years and have developed a strongguanxi (a personal connection). They often go out for meals together, exchange small gifts on special occasions, and help each other out whenever needed. This personal relationship goes beyond just business interactions and creates a sense of trust and mutual support between them. For instance, if Li needs a favour or an introduction to someone, Zhang would be more likely to assist him because of their establishedguanxi. It’s a friendship that extends beyond the workplace and enhances their professional collaboration.
(Mat)
I’m not sure if I get it. It sounds like they are workmates, they get on well with each other and when they need a favour, they help each other out, just like most people doing this in the situation. To me this sounds like just any kind of normal relationship between colleagues. I can imagine this happening in my country. So what am I missing here?
(Jocelyn)
OK, let me give a different example using our two characters Li and Zhang. Let’s say that Li is getting married and needs to hire a restaurant for the wedding party. Zhang’s uncle owns a fancy restaurant in the neighbourhood. Zhang says, “I’ll ask my uncle if he can give you a good deal on the wedding party”. Zhang’s uncle agrees, and Li can hire out the restaurant, for a very good price, and Zhang’s uncle will even give some free drinks and snacks on the table. Li is very happy, he accepts this offer. Zhang has done him a big favour. Li knows this and Zhang knows it. It is stored in their heads. Imagine it like a football score, Zhang One Li Zero. Zhang is owed a favour. Now this is where it gets interesting, because Zhang can call in that owed favour any time he wants. Next week, next month and even next year. It will not be forgotten.
That's quite fascinating. So, if someone wanted to start practicing Tai Chi, wherewould they start? Is there any special equipment or clothing they need?
(Jocelyn)
Ok, so if someone is interested in starting to practice Tai Chi, I would recommend finding a local Tai Chi class or teacher. Tai Chi is best learned through practice and guidance from an experienced instructor6. And you can ask around in your local community or search online for Tai Chi classes near you. When you find a class, just wear comfortable clothing (like something you’d wear for jogging) and comfortable shoes and of course, bring an open mind. Tai Chi is accessible to7 people of all ages and fitness levels8, so don’t worry if you’ve never done it before. Just be patient with yourself and enjoy the experience of learning something new.
(Mat)
Now there's one thing I really don't understand. Sometimes Tai Chi is described as a martial art, a traditional form of fighting, like Kung Fu or Chinese boxing9. But when I see those people in the park, doing their slow relaxing movements, as you said earlier, inspired by animals or natural elements, such as trees or water – it doesn’t really look like fighting to me.
(Jocelyn)
I understand your confusion, Mat. Tai Chi is indeed a martial art, but it’s a unique form of martial art that focuses on defence rather than attack. The slow movements that you see in the park are just one aspect of Tai Chi, which are used to cultivate internal strength and balance10, but Tai Chi also includes more dynamic movements and self-defence techniques that are used in combat11 situations (but you don’t usually see these being practiced in parks). But for most people, it’s all about fitness and well-being, relaxation and meditation.
(Mat)
Now, I think I've heard the expression ‘Tai Chi Master12’ before, ‘He’s a Tai Chi Master.’ – now I know that in some martial arts, like Japanesekarate13, there are different coloured belts, and black belt means Master. So what about Tai Chi? How do you become a Tai Chi Master? Is there some kind ofgrading system14?
(Jocelyn)
Actually, there isn’t a standard grading system for Tai Chi, like in some martial arts. In Tai Chi, the mastery15 of the art is often judged by one’s experience, skill and understanding of the principles of Tai Chi. Usually, someone is considered a Tai Chi Master after many years of dedicated practice and experience. It’s a title that’s earned through hard work, dedication and deep understanding of the art.
Well, that’s it for today. We hope you enjoyed this episode, thanks for listening. We hope to see you again next time. Until then, goodbye. Stay wise.
Key words and expressions:
1. Chinese martial art 中国武术
Chinese martial art, often called Kung Fu, is a traditional fighting system from China that combines physical techniques like kicks, punches, and forms with mental and spiritual aspects for self-defence and personal development.
e.g. He had been practicing Chinese martial art for years, mastering various forms and techniques to become a skilled fighter.他已经练习了多年的中国武术，掌握了各种招式和技巧，成为了一名熟练的武者。
2. meditation n. [C or U] /ˌmedɪˈteɪʃən/ 默念，冥想
the act of giving your attention to only one thing, either as a religious activity or as a way of becoming calm and relaxed
e.g. prayer and meditation
祈祷与冥想
3. promote v. /prəˈməʊt/促进, 推广
to encourage people to like, buy, use, do, or support something
e.g. The government is actively working to promote Chinese culture around the world through initiatives like cultural exchange programs. 政府正在积极通过文化交流计划等举措来推广中国文化，使其传播到世界各地。
4. coordinate with… 相配，协调
to match or look attractive together
e.g. The bed linen coordinates with the bedroom curtains.床单和卧室的窗帘很相配。
5.let go of 放开，放手
to stop holding something or someone
e.g. He let go ofher hand and ran across the street. 他放开了她的手，跑过马路。
6. instructor n. /ɪnˈstrʌktər/ 教练
a person whose job is to teach people a practical skill
e.g. a driving / ski / swimming instructor 驾驶／滑雪／游泳教练
7. be accessible to 可进入的，可接近的；可得到的
able to be reached or easily got
e.g. The internet has made it possible for people all over the world to be accessible to Chinese culture through online courses, cultural forums, and virtual museum tours.互联网使得全世界的人们通过在线课程、文化论坛和虚拟博物馆参观变得更加容易，从而能够接触到中国的文化。
8. fitness levels 体能水平
“Fitness levels” is the term used to describe a person's physical health and capability.
e.g. His fitness levels improved significantly after months of regular exercise and a balanced diet.在经过几个月的定期锻炼和均衡饮食后，他的健康水平显著提高了。
9. Chinese boxing中国拳法
“Chinese boxing” is a term that refers to traditional Chinese martial arts or combat systems, which include various styles and techniques such as Tai Chi. These martial arts emphasize physical control, technique, and often incorporate principles of internal energy.
e.g. Chinese boxing, also known as Kung Fu, is a traditional martial art practiced for self-defense and physical fitness. 中国拳法，又称功夫，是一种传统的武术，用于自卫和身体健康的练习。
10. internal strength and balance 内在力量和平衡
“Internal strength and balance” refers to the physical and mental qualities that promote stability, poise, and resilience from within a person’s body and mind.
e.g. Practicing yoga regularly can help improve one’s internal strength and balance, both physically and mentally. 定期练习瑜伽无论是在身体上还是在精神上都可以帮助提高一个人的内在力量和平衡。
11. combat n. [C or U] /ˈkɒmbæt/ 战斗，搏斗
a fight, especially during a war
e.g. There was fierce combat between the two sides. 双方展开了激烈的战斗。
12. Tai Chi Master 太极宗师，太极大师
A Tai Chi Master is an expert in the ancient Chinese martial art of Tai Chi, known for its flowing movements and holistic health benefits. These Masters are respected for their deep knowledge and skill in promoting physical and mental well-being through Tai Chi practice.
e.g. The Tai Chi Master gracefully demonstrated the art's fluid movements, leaving the audience in awe of his skill and poise.太极大师优雅地展示了这门艺术的流畅动作，令观众对他的技巧和风度赞叹不已。
13. karate n. [U] /kəˈrɑːti/ 空手道
a sport, originally from Japan, in which people fight using their arms, legs, hands, and feet. The level of skill a person has is shown by what colour belt they wear.
e.g. She has been practicing karate for five years and recently earned her black belt. 她已经练习空手道五年，最近获得了黑带。
14. grading system评级制度
A grading system is a way to assess and score individuals' performance, commonly in education, using letters, numbers, or symbols to indicate their level of achievement.
e.g. The university uses a letter-based grading system, with A being the highest grade for excellent performance and F indicating failure.该大学采用字母评分制度，其中A代表卓越的表现，是最高分，而F表示不及格
(Mat) Oh right, I see. Actually you’ve just reminded me. I think I remember a story about the moon, something about a moon goddess, some beautiful goddess who lived in the moon. Does that story have any connection with this festival?
(Jocelyn) Well remembered, Mat. You’re actually right. You’re talking about the popular Chinese legend of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess. According tothe ancient legend, Chang’e was a beautiful woman who consumed a specialelixir9, to make her immortal (to live forever), she drank the special elixir and floated up to the moon, where she still lives to this day. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, people pay tribute to10 Chang’e by offering her fruits,incense11, and mooncakes. The story of Chang’e adds a touch of12 magical charm andmythology13 to the festival, deepening its cultural significance. It’s a great story that has been passed down through generations and continues to be cherished during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
(Mat) Ah, mooncakes, finally we get to mooncakes. This is going to be my favourite part of the episode, because we are talking about cakes. Now I’ve had mooncakes on many occasions, and I always think they are quite varied, there are so many differentfillings14. Some I think are delicious, others… not really for me. So before we talk about the fillings, what’s the story behind mooncakes?
(Jocelyn) I think there are many different stories behind mooncakes. Most of these are very old legends. There are some old stories which say that army generals used mooncakes to hide secret messages, they could communicate important military information by sending mooncakes. Other stories tell us of how important people used to send mooncakes to each other with greetings or blessings carved into the top of the cake.
(Mat) OK, so that’s the history. Now let’s talk about mooncakes today. If someone wants to try mooncakes, what do they need to know?
(Jocelyn) Well, if someone wants to try mooncakes, they can expect a delightful variety of flavours, fillings, and textures15. Traditional mooncakes often feature flavours like lotus seed paste16, red bean paste, or mixed nuts. Some mooncakes may also use salted egg yolks17 fora savoury twist18. Modern variations have flavours like green tea, black sesame19, or even fruit-based fillings. There are even chocolate, coffee and ice cream versions. So it’s all about finding the flavour that suits your taste. Again, the texture of mooncakes can vary from soft and smooth to dense and chewy, depending on the type and filling. So it’s probably a good idea to try as many different types as you can, to discover your own personal favourite.
(Mat) I think that’s an excellent piece of advice. Try as many different cakes as you can. I think that’s a great idea!
Well, that’s it for today. We hope you enjoyed this episode, thanks for listening. We hope to see you again next time. Until then, goodbye. Stay wise.
Key words and expressions
1. be rooted in sth 根植于…
to be based on something or caused by something
e.g. Most prejudices are rooted in ignorance. 大多数偏见源于无知。
2. at its fullest and brightest 在最饱满和最明亮时
It refers to the peak or maximum point of something, often used to describe the maximum illumination of light or the highest degree of a particular state or condition.
e.g. The sun was at its fullest and brightest, casting a brilliant golden glow across the landscape. 太阳达到了它最饱满和最明亮的状态，照亮了整个风景。
3. harvest n. [C or U] /ˈhɑːvɪst/ 收获; 收成
the time of year when crops are cut and collected from the fields, or the activity of cutting and collecting them, or the crops that are cut and collected
e.g. We had a good harvest this year. 今年我们收成不错。
4. reminder n. [C] /rɪˈmaɪndər/ 提醒（的话），提示
a written or spoken message that reminds someone to do something
e.g. If he forgot to pay his rent, his landlady would send him a reminder.
如果他忘了付房租，女房东就会去信提醒他。
5. serene adj./səˈriːn/ 宁静的
peaceful and calm; worried by nothing
e.g. She has a lovely serene face. 她有一张可爱娴静的脸庞。
6. a focal point 焦点，中心点
the main center of attention or interest in a particular context
e.g. The bright red sculpture in the middle of the art gallery serves as a focal point, drawing visitors’ attention as soon as they enter. 艺术馆中央的鲜红色雕塑充当着焦点，吸引着游客们一进门就注意到它。
7. heartfelt wishes 衷心的祝愿
sincere desires or blessings expressed from the heart
e.g. I send you my heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery.
我送上衷心的祝愿，希望你能尽快康复。
8. foster v./ˈfɒstər/ 培养
to encourage the development or growth of ideas or feelings
e.g. Good teachers strive to foster a love of learning in their students. 优秀的教师努力培养学生对学习的热爱。
9. elixir n. [C] /iˈlɪksər/ 灵丹妙药，长生不老药
a substance, usually a liquid, with a magical power to cure, improve, or preserve something
e.g. It’s yet another health product claiming to be the elixir of life.
这又是一种号称灵丹妙药的保健产品，据说有延年益寿之奇效。
10. pay tribute to 赞扬，称赞
to praise someone or something
e.g. The minister paid tribute to the men who had fought the blaze.
部长高度赞扬了奋力扑灭大火的勇士们。
11. incense n. [U] /ˈɪn.sens/ 香
a substance that is burnt to produce a sweet smell, especially as part of a religious ceremony
e.g. an incense burner/stick 香炉／香烛
12. add a touch of添加一丝、一点的成分、特性或品质
to include or introduce a small amount or a slight hint of something, often for the purpose of enhancing or improving it
e.g. She added a touch of cinnamon to the apple pie for extra flavour.
她在苹果派中加了一点肉桂以增添额外的味道。
13. mythology n. [U] /mɪˈθɒlədʒi/ 神话
myths in general
e.g. She’s fascinated by the stories of classical mythology. 她被古典神话故事迷住了。
14. filling n. [C or U] /ˈfɪlɪŋ/ （三明治、蛋糕等的）馅
the layer of food inside a sandwich, cake, etc.
e.g. pies with sweet or savoury fillings 甜味或咸味的馅饼
15. texture n. [C or U] /ˈtekstʃər/ 质地;质感
the quality of something that can be decided by touch; the degree to which something is rough or smooth, or soft or hard
e.g. a smooth/rough/coarse texture 光滑／不平／粗糙的质地
16. lotus seed paste 莲蓉馅儿
17. salted egg yolks 咸蛋黄
18. a savoury twist 咸口儿
introducing a salty or savoury element to enhance or change the flavour of something
Sure! Aqipao is a traditional Chinese dress that’s known for its elegant, fairly tight,figure-hugging5 design. It’s often worn by women on special occasions, and features a high collar and unique patterns. You’ve definitely seen one before – it’s the classic traditional Chinese dress. It’s a symbol of grace andfemininity6. Atangzhuang, on the other hand, is a style of traditional Chinese jacket. It has a straight cut and a stand-up collar. Both of these classic clothing items look best when they’re made from silk.
(Mat)
Ah yes, I can picture them now. So let’s get back to the fabric, silk. Now I know that there are different types of silk, like different quality levels or grades (I remember this, I think, when I was in a traditional silk shop somewhere). So how can we tell how good a piece of silk is? How do we measure the quality?
(Jocelyn)
So, when it comes to silk quality, there are a few things to look for. One of the most important things is the sheen7 (that’s just a fancy word for how shiny the fabric is or the material is) – the highest-quality silk has a natural, beautiful shine. It looksglossy8 and almost wet. And it behaves like a liquid, it has a unique fluid flow (that I’ve mentioned before). The highest-quality silk looks so shiny that it has a strange reflective quality to it. Now, as you go down in quality, the sheen is lower, so the silk looks less shiny, and this gives it a less fluid appearance, and it looks kind of flat. And there’s another important difference, the higher-quality silks are stronger because they are made from the best raw material. Cheaper lower grade silk isn’t as strong because it’s made frominferior9 materials, so it doesn’t last as long as it can break or tear quite easily.
(Mat)
Now that’s quite interesting because I thought the opposite would be true. In my mind, when I picture high-quality silk, I imagine a fabric that is really delicate and easy to rip. But it seems like you’re saying that this isn’t the case.
(Jocelyn)
That’s exactly what I’m saying. Because of its light weight, silk is often thought of unable to withstand everyday wear. A lot of people think silk is fragile10 because of its appearance. On the contrary, silk is one of nature’s strongest natural fabrics when it’s high-quality silk, it’s really strong. A well-made silk dress can last for decades and even become anheirloom11 piece. In Chinese museums, you can find examples of old silk clothing that is hundreds and even thousands of years old.
(Mat)
Wow, I didn’t know that. So silk is one of the strongest fabrics or natural fabrics in the world. That’s pretty cool.
(Jocelyn)
Yeah, I forgot to mention before that it has a nickname, ‘The Queen of Textiles12’ and it gets that name partly from its appearance and partly from its strength.
(Mat)
Right, that’s quite a cool nickname, I’m impressed. So if silk is the queen of textiles, what’s the king?
(Jocelyn)
Haha. To be honest I don’t know the answer to that, cause it’s meant to be an episode just about the queen, silk, I guess.
(Mat) Sure, so what else do I need to know about silk before we finish?
(Jocelyn) Well if you really want to know more about silk, you should really visit the city of Suzhou, the silk capital, it is a must-visit for any silk fan. You can explore the silk shops on Pingjiang Lu, learn all about silk craftsmanship at Suzhou Silk Museum, and witness silk production in a factory. You can take home exquisite souvenirs like embroidered gowns, fans, and bedding. Speciality shops even createbespoke13 qipaos andtangzhuang jackets, making you feel like a real Chinese silk goddess!
(Mat)
I’m not sure if I really want to be a silk goddess, but I think this is a good place to make some cultural connections. We can think about silk beyond China too. Of course, the ancient Silk Road trade enabled silk to travel from China to places like Persia, Rome, Egypt and many other regions in ancient times. So silk’s luxurious reputation expands many centuries and many different civilizations. And of course, these days, silk is really important globally in luxury fashion. Top designer brands from Italy, France, and around the world, many of them use silk for their most prestigious14 and most expensivegarments15. I know that actually in my country, England, when we think about very formal, traditional clothing, a silk tie is considered to be the highest quality tie you can find. So silk’s luxury appeal is actually important to people all around the world, not just in Chinese culture.
Well, that’s it for today. We hope you enjoyed this episode, thanks for listening. We hope to see you again next time. Until then, goodbye. Stay wise.
Key words and expressions:
1. cherish v. /ˈtʃerɪʃ/ 珍爱，钟爱
to love, protect, and care for someone or something that is important to you
e.g. Chinese culture is cherished by people all around the world for its rich history.
中国文化因其丰富的历史而受到世界各地人们的珍视。
2. texture n. [C or U] /ˈtekstʃər/ 质感；手感
the quality of something that can be decided by touch
e.g. This artificial fabric has the texture of silk.
这种人造织物有丝一样的质感。
3. silky smooth 如丝般柔滑
used to describe something that is exceptionally smooth, soft in texture or appearance, resembling the feel of silk
e.g. After applying the lotion, her skin felt silky smooth to the touch.
涂抹了护肤霜后，她的皮肤触感如丝般柔滑。
4. drape v. /dreɪp/ 披，搭，垂下来
to put something such as cloth or a piece of clothing loosely over something
e.g. She draped the scarf loosely around her shoulders.
OK, so it’s similar to the English expression, you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours. So when Zhang gets married, he can ask Li to help with the restaurant arrangements for his wedding. Is that how it works?
(Jocelyn)
Well, yes, that’s possible, but Zhang is owed a favour of a “similar social value” – it could be something completely unrelated to weddings. So let’s say Li’s sister has a very important university examination coming up, she needs some guidance with her studies. Zhang’s sister is a teacher, Li asks Zhang, “Can your sister help my sister with her exam?” Zhang is obliged to say yes.
(Mat)
OK, so Li asks Zhang to repay the favour. And Zhang cannot refuse. But what happens if Li asks Zhang to lend him a million dollars or something like that?
(Jocelyn)
Well, that’s it, you’ve kind of found the true meaning of “guanxi” here. There is an understanding that the favours exchanged should be within a reasonable and appropriate range – equal in size to the favour owed. Asking for a million dollars would likely be considered beyond the scope of theguanxi relationship between Li and Zhang. It’s important to note thatguanxi operates within certain boundaries and is based on trust and balance. Asking for such a large sum of money would likely puta strain on the relationship and go against the principles ofguanxi. It’s more common for these favours to be related to personal or professional support, advice, introductions, or small-scale assistance. It’s about maintaining a harmonious and balanced relationship, rather than exploiting or imposing on the other person.
(Mat)
OK, so let me see if I’ve got it. Let’s say you wrote a book about English culture and you wanted me to write a recommendation in the preface. I agree to do it, I write it for you, and then you owe me a favour and we both know it, and then about one month later, I mention that I need to find a publisher for, let’s say, my book. Imagine I wrote a book on Chinese culture, and you say you have a publisher friend, then you invite us both out to lunch, so that we can have a formal introduction. You can introduce me to your publisher friend. And then you have repaid the favour. I think that’s it, yeah.
(Jocelyn)
Ah, that’s a great example, Mat! You’ve got a better understanding ofguanxi now. In your example, the exchange of favours and support is a perfect illustration of howguanxi works. By writing a recommendation for my book, you do me a favour, and when you need assistance with finding a publisher, I leverage my personal connections to introduce you to my publisher friend. This kind of exchange strengthens ourguanxi and shows the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship based on trust and mutual support.People rely on their personal networks to navigate various aspects of life, whether it’s professional opportunities, social connections, or even personal matters. Chinese people understand the value ofguanxi and use it to build a better society by fostering cooperation, collaboration, and a sense of interconnectedness. It’s a cultural practice that reflects the deep-rooted values of mutual benefit and reciprocity.
Well, that’s it for today. We hope you enjoyed this episode, thanks for listening. We hope to see you again next time. Until then, goodbye. Stay wise.
