Because one can never have too many categories that only have 1 post, I am starting something new to see if it helps me to start writing more regularly again.
As many in my direct circle know, I read quite some news. I try to mention at least once per day that I read something in the news, casually, in a conversation. And since commentary and reviewing is something else I like to do, I thought of starting a series where I write my thoughts about an article I read. A lot of them will be related to China, since that is one of the topics I follow most closely.
Shanghai’s Halloween Party, a Rare Chance for Chinese to Vent in Style
New York Times
Halloween is one of my least favorite holidays. I did not celebrate it when I was younger and at my current age I have a feeling it is more related to commerce (what is not these days?) than any actual celebrations. The whole ringing door bells and asking for candy thing is related to Saint Martin for me and then you get to hold a lantern and sing a song, so that seems vastly superior to me.
What struck me from the article is the spot where all the Chinese partygoers were photographed. Whenever I see a photo of Shanghai or Beijing, I cannot help but try to figure out where it was taken. Especially the big overpass rings a bell, somewhere in the back of my brain. Some of the other photos are probably taken around Xuhui Road?
Secondly, I identify heavily with all of the non-dressed people in the background who are either frozen in an awkward position or looking on their phone. This is how I would feature on one of these photos. This is how I would celebrate Halloween.
Thirdly, I am surprised that any politically tinted costumes were found. I would say this is a slightly Western bias to look for these kinds of themes, but I do find it nice to see the Chinese are being as creative as ever within their limits. The cucumber is going to give me nightmares though.
Bitesized Writing 
Yeah, I agree…. Carnaval is FAR more superior to Halloween 🙂
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