Writing in China

Some time ago I did my three 'rules' for living in China. (Look back to get the details).

To recap, these are:

1. This is China
2. Nothing can be easy.
3. Never plan ahead.

Howevever I also have various 'sub-rules'.

One of these is:

You have to ask at least three time to get an answer.

I put this down partly to the Chinese 'custom' of not wanting to admit they don't know something. Sometimes it's also that they don't want to tell you, for whatever reason. Sometimes it's just perverse Chinese thinking or mis-communication!

Here's an example, and it is the one that caused me to create this rule.

I was walking along a river with a Chinese friend, when I saw a strange looking building across on the other bank. I asked my friend what that building was.

Answer 1: It's a building.

Really? You think? I asked again.

Answer 2: It's something to do with the river.

I roll my eyes and ask again.

Answer 3: I don't know.

Ah, there you go.