Coal

One Cockroach at a time

Sep 29, 06:16 Travel

So I’ve been asked once or twice why I’m not writing anything about China, now that I’m here. The answer is that, well, I’m in China, and I simply can’t summarize my experience or this country and culture for you – even with my prodigious literary skills. If I set myself to the task I might give you a taste of the lidded grapelike dragon’s eyes, let you feel the humid weight of the morning fog, and listen to the constant chorus of tonal Chinese that seeps from every pore and public space like the scent of sichuan oil. But I could not do so without giving the impression that you were sampling all of these things, as at the supermarket, only for a moment. In reality, the foreigners are the produce for sample in China, on display and ready to be tasted or, possibly, thrown aside.

But you all know I’m being silly and dramatic because it’s late and I feel like it. The Chinese are wonderfully friendly and easy to get along with in most situations, despite communicational difficulties. That doesn’t make the bit about being on display untrue.

I am enjoying my time here so far, at least when I’m not sick. Teaching is going as well as could be expected – and if it isn’t they’re not telling me. Things are cheap and living in its simple form is easy. Everyday social interaction can be a chore, since I’m often dependent on the Chinese for one thing or another, and it’s no fun to be dependent all the time.

On Sunday I travel to Chengdu, home of the panda reserve, and if all goes well will visit either Emei Shan or Qingcheng Shan, or both. I plan to take pictures and report back with details as appropriate, so, vicarious travellers, stay tuned.

Immediately available are a few location pics I’ve taken here in Chongqing – the view from my apartment, of part of my apartment, and of my place of work.

I also have pics of coworkers but I decided to refrain from posting some until I could post all.