十二月十六日至十九日，一行五人到花蓮旅遊四天。
十二月十六日 - 晴
為趕乘七時半早機到台北，五時許便搭的士往赤鱲角。九時之前，已到達桃園機場，真快。
因為由台北到花蓮的火車票售罄，唯有先乘的士到宜蘭。十一時半，再轉火車到花蓮。沿途看風景，左方是一望無際的太平洋；右方不遠處，已是一串串畢直的山脈，連綿不絕。就是未踏足花蓮半步，已先感受到台灣東岸地貌之奇。
一時前，已抵花蓮車站。先到住處「羊兒煙囪」放下行李。「羊兒煙囪」是民宿，由數間獨立屋組合而成。放下行李時，瞥見住房牆壁畫有幼稚卡通羊兒，捧著西瓜，不禁莞爾。到市中心公正包子店吃包子、米粉和水餃作午餐，東西樸實無華，價廉物美。
後到「松園別館」參觀。「松園別館」建於山麓，遙望太平洋，是日治時期軍事要塞。建築一貫日式優雅，花園有松樹數株，合上蓮池，和四周恬靜環境實是相宜之配。別館內，設有台灣詩人詠太平洋的詩選，當然有余光中的和鄭愁予的，都美。
然後到七星潭踏單車。迎著海風，近觀太平洋。七星潭是一石灘，遊人不少。看到一個原住民，拿起吉他，自彈自唱，悠然自得。到柴魚博物館繞了一圈，知道從前花蓮是製木魚絲重鎮，今已式微。
於花蓮漁港吃晚飯。所謂漁港，只有食店寥落數片，並不熱鬧。吃了廉價鮮美生魚片及數個小炒，也不錯。飯畢，到自強夜市蹓躂。規模和漁港一般小，半小時便逛完。吃了些地瓜及芋頭拔絲，都美味；另外吃了點水果，價錢卻有點貴。
十二月十七日 - 多雲
在「羊兒煙囪」吃過早餐，和它的三頭羊玩了一會兒後，便乘一早訂定的七人車四處遊玩。司機閻大哥，兼任導遊講解。黑黑實實，有點中年發福模樣；一身便服，沒有如上回台中的林叔叔般穿著整齊結領帶。此後兩天，我們和閻大哥及其湖水綠色七人車，如影隨形，誰也離不開誰。
閻大哥先載我們到花蓮港參觀。港口停泊輪船三數，其中一艘，聽說有份參與登陸釣魚台任務！後到「清水斷崖」。所謂「清水斷崖」，是蘇花公路段其中一點，懸崖陡峭之極，海水顏色斑斕絢麗。我們從兩處觀看「清水斷崖」，先從閻大哥口中得六十分之點看起。在平坦的馬路上觀賞，左邊是斷崖，右邊是無止境的大海，後方被直插入雲的群山環抱，看著驚濤拍岸的人，只是滄海一粟。再到八十分之點，反方向觀看「清水斷崖」。此觀看處是舊蘇花公路之「遺址」，窄路如棧道般沿崖壁而鑿，聽閻大哥說，從前車子走過時，半邊車輪會凌空而駛，驚心動魄。心底裏對築此路的台灣工人肅然起敬，為打通南北線，也不知平添多少亡魂。既是「遺址」，路面自是凌亂。由山上滾到「遺址」的亂石，星羅棋佈，有的堆積如小丘，有的零星瑟縮角落。可以想像，驅車於此，中「頭獎」並不罕見。要看八十分景色，需站於懸崖旁的亂石上俯瞰，因畏高，就此作罷。至於一百分的「清水斷崖」呢？閻大哥說，你須懂攀岩，把身子懸掛半空，才能看到完美景致。
下午到太魯閣遊覽。於其遊客中心午膳，果腹矣。飯畢，先到燕子口的錐麓吊橋。由於閻大哥有「裏應」，我們不必申請，便能於吊橋走一趟。只是來回行走一趟，也能感受到太魯閣山巒之壯麗。之後，我們到白楊步道，目的地是水濂洞，沿途需走過共七條長短不一的隧道。天氣涼爽，風景怡人，行山自是一大享受。尤其是置身太魯閣那氣魄宏大的山林中，上仰崇山峻嶺，下俯洪流激湍，與香港山林截然不同，如姚明對比曾志偉，相映成趣。到水濂洞口，立即穿上於早前買下的便利雨衣，換上拖鞋，便進內玩水。水濂洞不深，左方是引水道，右方是行人道。洞內黑漆漆一片，拿著電筒，亂叫一通，自是有趣。至洞末，可看到另一片山林。不過，還是著眼面前的水濂，玩過痛快。後來還加插撿拖鞋環節，抵玩也。
是夜下榻布洛灣山月村，並用餐於此。晚飯是自助餐，平平無奇。飯後，有原住民表演看，非常業餘。那非原住民老闆大聲疾呼，如何幫助原住民甚麼的來討小費，也不深究。
十二月十八日 - 多雲、有微雨
於山月村吃罷早餐，再漫遊燕子口，延續十七日未完的路。由民宿下山，要落上千級樓梯吧？到山下的路口，D要繫鞋繩。她的小腿、雙手、而至整個人，在下山後不受控的抖動，雖則可憐，也實是搞笑。入燕子口，只是九時許，已有一車車的同胞魚貫入內。看見同胞們都戴上安全帽，因早前有人死於落石之下。反觀我們五人，安全意識竟比同胞低，失禮失禮。燕子口應是河對面石壁上一個個的小洞穴；在我們這方，步道沿山岩而建，時而深邃，時而光亮；而山岩形態波譎雲詭，像「國殤之柱」般，似有萬千人臉，如泣如訴。時間所限，我們只能完成燕子口部分路段，途中，我只在入口處看見一隻燕子。
完成太魯閣行程，回到花蓮。閻大哥帶我們到一地道小店吃炒米粉、五花肉。其實，只要地道便好。然後到吉安慶修院參觀。此佛門清靜地是日本人遺下的另一佳品，乾淨、寧靜，非一般吵鬧混亂的中國佛堂可比。只有此等環境，人才能安神吧。
之後，到鯉魚潭。名字由來，和湖的形態、魚種無任何關係，只是它依靠鯉魚山，因而得名。原本閻大哥著我們踏水上單車，但我們對此興趣不大，沿湖閒逛一會便離開。
後到一人工湖，名字倒是忘了。此處看見很多台灣遊人；可是，既人工又新淨的東西，於我無甚看頭。失望準備上車之際，閻大哥為我們介紹園內一種源自南洋的樹 - 此樹軀幹由多棵大小不一、像男根般的東西組成，非常過癮，連一眾女士都對之愛不惜手。稍後，閻大哥帶我們啃滿妹豬腳。此店豬腳軟熟入味，值得推薦。
吃飽，浸露天溫泉。共三個湯，最熱的湯僅四十二度，不熱。男女共浴，要穿泳衣及帶浴帽，有點怪。不過，經過三天旅程，即便浸這般溫溫吞吞的溫泉，也是寫意的事。最殺風景的，是有人在湯中剝腳皮。看到即走。
精神抖擻，又是吃的時候。這次我們吃鄧胖子牛肉麵。店內坐滿花蓮人，必定對路了。雖則湯不算濃，但牛肉香滑，加上酸菜更能刺激胃口。後到大街上閒逛一會。像我們慣了香港的熱鬧，其他地方都是鐵定冷清的了，花蓮亦然。城內樓矮，都是三數層高的；人不多，幾天下來，都沒有和陌生人肩摩肩。在大街上，胡亂買了些手信便乘的士回「羊兒煙囪」了。
值得一提是，花蓮的的士司機不算友善。像這晚的司機，問長問短的兜生意，兜不著生意便多收車費，是為這次旅行的唯一污點。
十二月十九日 - 晴
在「羊兒煙囪」吃過早餐，便趕乘火車回台北了。下火車時已差不多一點，到鼎王吃麻辣火窩。愛它的鴨紅、豆腐和酸菜，再以麻辣湯汁伴大量蔥花泡飯便足夠了，其他的甚麼都不重要。
吃飽，回家便好。
2012年12月28日 星期五
Atlas Shrugged - 20121213
The completion of reading this over 1,000 pages magnum opus was a relief.
Some 60 years ago, Ayn Rand has overtly told us how an altruistic government could destroy a whole country. Punishing the rich guys, by seizing their assets and redistributing its to the poor, the benefited proletariats could feel good. Nevertheless, it discourages the pursuance of material success and promotes comfy laziness. In the end, society will disintegrate, as no normal person would volunteer for the sake of others without cause at all.
While having a glance at the world of the prevailing time, and comparing with the novel, one may be stunned to discover that, it is quite fallacious to presume that human beings could learn from history.
Americans rob the rest of the world via quantitative easement. EU robs the rich states (if there is still any) to save the bankrupted ones. And even HK is trying to rob the taxed ones to help the elderly, although poor oldies may not be included and yet rich ones could be, paradoxically.
Maybe 1,000 pages are too much for politicians.
Some 60 years ago, Ayn Rand has overtly told us how an altruistic government could destroy a whole country. Punishing the rich guys, by seizing their assets and redistributing its to the poor, the benefited proletariats could feel good. Nevertheless, it discourages the pursuance of material success and promotes comfy laziness. In the end, society will disintegrate, as no normal person would volunteer for the sake of others without cause at all.
While having a glance at the world of the prevailing time, and comparing with the novel, one may be stunned to discover that, it is quite fallacious to presume that human beings could learn from history.
Americans rob the rest of the world via quantitative easement. EU robs the rich states (if there is still any) to save the bankrupted ones. And even HK is trying to rob the taxed ones to help the elderly, although poor oldies may not be included and yet rich ones could be, paradoxically.
Maybe 1,000 pages are too much for politicians.
2012年10月6日 星期六
矛盾 - 20121006
近來，中港矛盾日益加劇，故事不絕；星期三，我亦目睹一例，立此存照。
早上乘巴士上班，香港人如我，當要排隊候車。在巴士到站之際，不知道從那裡殺出一家四口大陸人，想打尖上車。老練如我，以迅捷步法，配合劍拔弩張的身體，成功格開外敵。排在我後方的本地少女，忍不住口，訓斥同胞：「喂，排隊啦，香港搭車要排隊架！」大陸家庭為之錯愕，少女順利依序登車。
在巴士上，「一家四口」，父子二人一排，坐在我正左方；母女則坐在我正後方。父親是典型內地模樣，梳平頭裝，略胖，架一副小金絲眼鏡，年四十左右。他明顯處於盛怒狀態，以帶些鄉音的廣東話，破口大罵：「你香港人好撚巴撚蔽咩，打尖？我幾撚時有打尖呀？」及後稍微冷靜下來，和十歲上下的肥仔仔道：「香港人屋細路窄，心胸都窄。」再補充：「香港人成日講規矩，咪死鴣鴣囉。」車上其他人，包括我，都是本地人，也任他放肆撤野。
當時我心亂如麻，究竟應該本能地隨意回敬他們，如「大陸人財大氣粗，成世做老粗」等意氣話；還是好言相向，力陳這般說話會教壞細路；還是「多一事不如少一事」，做一隻普通的塘邊鶴 . . . . . . 想著想著，到站下車了。
早上乘巴士上班，香港人如我，當要排隊候車。在巴士到站之際，不知道從那裡殺出一家四口大陸人，想打尖上車。老練如我，以迅捷步法，配合劍拔弩張的身體，成功格開外敵。排在我後方的本地少女，忍不住口，訓斥同胞：「喂，排隊啦，香港搭車要排隊架！」大陸家庭為之錯愕，少女順利依序登車。
在巴士上，「一家四口」，父子二人一排，坐在我正左方；母女則坐在我正後方。父親是典型內地模樣，梳平頭裝，略胖，架一副小金絲眼鏡，年四十左右。他明顯處於盛怒狀態，以帶些鄉音的廣東話，破口大罵：「你香港人好撚巴撚蔽咩，打尖？我幾撚時有打尖呀？」及後稍微冷靜下來，和十歲上下的肥仔仔道：「香港人屋細路窄，心胸都窄。」再補充：「香港人成日講規矩，咪死鴣鴣囉。」車上其他人，包括我，都是本地人，也任他放肆撤野。
當時我心亂如麻，究竟應該本能地隨意回敬他們，如「大陸人財大氣粗，成世做老粗」等意氣話；還是好言相向，力陳這般說話會教壞細路；還是「多一事不如少一事」，做一隻普通的塘邊鶴 . . . . . . 想著想著，到站下車了。
2012年6月14日 星期四
Justice - 20120612
Normally, I would avoid hot picks. For example, I have never watched Titanic, even the new version has been launched after that many years. I am ashamed of following the tide. However, I recently read Justice, which is a popular little book on political science. I would say that, it was quite enjoyable.
The book was written by Michael Sandel, a professor of Harvard University. The book gives an introduction on different theories of how justice could be obtained. Bentham promoted the Utilitarianism, Hayek advocated the free market, Aristotle pursued teleo, Rawls was eager for distributive justice and Kant looked into the essence of goodness rather than ways and methods. Obviously, no one theory is perfect and everyone is subject to criticism.
It is good to go through those concepts via daily examples. Sometimes these examples challenge one's view. Say, if you embrace free market, is it justifiable for anything to has a price tag? It may be acceptable for rich gay to jump queue by bribing waiters. Yet it may not be the same case if someone is bidding for other's kidney. Later example may not be a teleo.
So, Justice is a lovely book and may rectify our distorted value and belief, in some sense for some time.
The book was written by Michael Sandel, a professor of Harvard University. The book gives an introduction on different theories of how justice could be obtained. Bentham promoted the Utilitarianism, Hayek advocated the free market, Aristotle pursued teleo, Rawls was eager for distributive justice and Kant looked into the essence of goodness rather than ways and methods. Obviously, no one theory is perfect and everyone is subject to criticism.
It is good to go through those concepts via daily examples. Sometimes these examples challenge one's view. Say, if you embrace free market, is it justifiable for anything to has a price tag? It may be acceptable for rich gay to jump queue by bribing waiters. Yet it may not be the same case if someone is bidding for other's kidney. Later example may not be a teleo.
So, Justice is a lovely book and may rectify our distorted value and belief, in some sense for some time.
2012年6月7日 星期四
King's Park - 20120607
After a decade, I touched football again last night, in a pitch which sounds so politically incorrect. King's Park.
Being a New Territories resident, I should be pardoned for haven't been there before. King's Park is an oasis (or mirage?) in the busy Kowloon. The ambience is so serene, and doing exercise there should be particularly relaxing. Obviously, being such a prime cite, surrounding apartments must be of outrageous price. Yet there is a cheap alternative. Oi Man Estate. So, either substantially rich guys or nominally poor families could be the lucky ones.
In King's Park, paradoxically, I did not meet any monarch. Instead, quite a number of senior executives were encountered. We chased the ball, possessed it and gave it away, on and off. Among the players, the most interesting one was a black guy, coming from Cameroon.
Let's call him O. O was my teammate, but I knew nothing about him until yesterday. While travelling to the pitch, O shown me some photos of Cameroon. It surprised me that vegetation flourished over there. O kept on testing my limit. He said the temperature of Cameroon right now is 25 degree Celsius. Hong Kong is hotter. Then, O flipped some of his secondary school's photos. It was like Eton. I asked whether it was established by missionary and O nodded. Well, my greatest concern was, why did O come to Hong Kong, when Cameroon was like a paradise. I swallowed up my question.
One final remark, with my feet dumped for that long, I played lousily.
Being a New Territories resident, I should be pardoned for haven't been there before. King's Park is an oasis (or mirage?) in the busy Kowloon. The ambience is so serene, and doing exercise there should be particularly relaxing. Obviously, being such a prime cite, surrounding apartments must be of outrageous price. Yet there is a cheap alternative. Oi Man Estate. So, either substantially rich guys or nominally poor families could be the lucky ones.
In King's Park, paradoxically, I did not meet any monarch. Instead, quite a number of senior executives were encountered. We chased the ball, possessed it and gave it away, on and off. Among the players, the most interesting one was a black guy, coming from Cameroon.
Let's call him O. O was my teammate, but I knew nothing about him until yesterday. While travelling to the pitch, O shown me some photos of Cameroon. It surprised me that vegetation flourished over there. O kept on testing my limit. He said the temperature of Cameroon right now is 25 degree Celsius. Hong Kong is hotter. Then, O flipped some of his secondary school's photos. It was like Eton. I asked whether it was established by missionary and O nodded. Well, my greatest concern was, why did O come to Hong Kong, when Cameroon was like a paradise. I swallowed up my question.
One final remark, with my feet dumped for that long, I played lousily.
2012年4月28日 星期六
A Speaking Photo - 20120426
While reading the Next Magazine yesterday, I spotted a photo which was deeply moving.
The photo appeared in the article about Lobsang Sangay, prime minister of the Central Tibetan Administration, or more accurately, the Tibetan Government in Exile, which was situated in Dharamshala of India. Nevertheless, the photo that stirred me up was not any portrait related to the prime minister.
It was about martyrdom. A young guy, by setting himself on fire, appealed for the independence of Tibet. From the photo, we could see that the guy was fully covered in flame. He seemed to be rushing, yelling at something before his life came to the end. Apart from the martyr, there were quite a number of bystanders, hanging around the dying figure, without a trait of emotion. Nobody seemed to has offered help, nor be frightened by the act. According to the magazine, from Aug 2011 onwards, over 30 people have committed the same act to fight for the same thing. And more stunningly, 28 of those were monks.
So, here's the demonstration of "Give me Liberty, or give me Death!" And what a huge contrast it is, when comparing with those local rallies, which "over-reacted body bombardment" are always reported with the upmost magnification.
The photo appeared in the article about Lobsang Sangay, prime minister of the Central Tibetan Administration, or more accurately, the Tibetan Government in Exile, which was situated in Dharamshala of India. Nevertheless, the photo that stirred me up was not any portrait related to the prime minister.
It was about martyrdom. A young guy, by setting himself on fire, appealed for the independence of Tibet. From the photo, we could see that the guy was fully covered in flame. He seemed to be rushing, yelling at something before his life came to the end. Apart from the martyr, there were quite a number of bystanders, hanging around the dying figure, without a trait of emotion. Nobody seemed to has offered help, nor be frightened by the act. According to the magazine, from Aug 2011 onwards, over 30 people have committed the same act to fight for the same thing. And more stunningly, 28 of those were monks.
So, here's the demonstration of "Give me Liberty, or give me Death!" And what a huge contrast it is, when comparing with those local rallies, which "over-reacted body bombardment" are always reported with the upmost magnification.
2012年3月31日 星期六
Biodiversity - 20120330
Inside a court room, we could see all sorts of peculiar things.
A 27-year-old lady was convicted of "conspiracy to defraud". The lady, with a golden pigtail, was frail. When she heard the sentence of 21 months imprisonment, she almost fainted. Her boyfriend, a fat and rather stocky guy, together with three little girls, with age ranging from around four to twelve, intended to support the convicted. Nevertheless, children were sent out of the court before the hearing began. The defence counsel pleaded, rather unskifully, that the lady, as a mother of four children, and was expecting the fifth one, was remorseful for the crime. The magistrate asked the expected date of labouring. The defence counsel, and even the lady herself, awfully did not know.
It is hard to think, at such a modern era, and under that outrageously high living standard, that there is still someone who would not give a damn on birth control. It is an uncommon scene even among Catholics.
A youngster was charged of indecent assaults. Two ladies, both in black skirts, with stockings in the same colour, alleged that the defendant touched their hips, one by one. When the events occurred, the two ladies were together in a group of eight in boys and girls. The defendant pleaded not guilty. The magistrate, though openly said that the suspected was not a honest witness, acquitted the youngster by giving him the benefit of doubt. The main point was, the girls were not sure which part of the boy's hand was on their hips.
So, it was difficult for conviction to be rendered, as witness may not have a full picture on the event. Thus, do not plead guilty lightly.
The case is even more likely if you are rich. The ability of counsel matters, greatly. Seasoned barristers charge sky-high fee. However, they are experts of court procedure, and magicians of interpretation.
Like the meaning of "construction site". This solid term is quite malleable to those learned few. When the works stop, construction site becomes home again. And no matter how tiny our apartments are, it could be compartmentalized into living and non-living area. Dazed.
A 27-year-old lady was convicted of "conspiracy to defraud". The lady, with a golden pigtail, was frail. When she heard the sentence of 21 months imprisonment, she almost fainted. Her boyfriend, a fat and rather stocky guy, together with three little girls, with age ranging from around four to twelve, intended to support the convicted. Nevertheless, children were sent out of the court before the hearing began. The defence counsel pleaded, rather unskifully, that the lady, as a mother of four children, and was expecting the fifth one, was remorseful for the crime. The magistrate asked the expected date of labouring. The defence counsel, and even the lady herself, awfully did not know.
It is hard to think, at such a modern era, and under that outrageously high living standard, that there is still someone who would not give a damn on birth control. It is an uncommon scene even among Catholics.
A youngster was charged of indecent assaults. Two ladies, both in black skirts, with stockings in the same colour, alleged that the defendant touched their hips, one by one. When the events occurred, the two ladies were together in a group of eight in boys and girls. The defendant pleaded not guilty. The magistrate, though openly said that the suspected was not a honest witness, acquitted the youngster by giving him the benefit of doubt. The main point was, the girls were not sure which part of the boy's hand was on their hips.
So, it was difficult for conviction to be rendered, as witness may not have a full picture on the event. Thus, do not plead guilty lightly.
The case is even more likely if you are rich. The ability of counsel matters, greatly. Seasoned barristers charge sky-high fee. However, they are experts of court procedure, and magicians of interpretation.
Like the meaning of "construction site". This solid term is quite malleable to those learned few. When the works stop, construction site becomes home again. And no matter how tiny our apartments are, it could be compartmentalized into living and non-living area. Dazed.
2012年3月22日 星期四
南生圍 & 流浮山 - 20120322
Last Saturday, we wandered in the western part of N.T., together with some friends of J.
We first had a little walk in the famous 南生圍. Situated in Yuen Long, the place is always associated with the not so likable crocodile Bui Bui, which was caught there and relocated to our wetland park and has been living there since then. It is stupid yet common that good things are always adhered by irrelevant stuff, by chance.
南生圍 is a funny place. It could be reached in a 15-minute walking distance from the MTR station. The place is separated from the busy world by Shan Bui River, which is more like a ditch. To cross the river, we got on the hand-rowing sampan that costed each of us $5. Just another little exotic experience. Then we took some drinks in a local store. I was allured by those handmade local pastries. The stuff was baked by wood and fire. However, I was restricted to complete the transaction. What a pity.
We then started our walk. It was already 4:30 pm. Luckily, the weather was excellent. The sky was blue, the air fresh and the scene stunningly beautiful. Strolling along the mud path, we could enjoy the natural landscape. The yard was wide-open, there were some low hills at the far end. Right in front of us, there were the neat vegetation, small ponds and few houses sparingly stood on the ground. It was like Greece, and a reminiscence to Theos Angelopolis' movies. However, I was waken up by packs of crowd.
It was a Saturday and thus collision with crowd was inevitable in each and every corners of HK. We saw cyclers, youngsters and many amateur photographers. A lovely Pug impressed me most.
Then we went to 流浮山 for dinner. I haven't been there for over 25 years. It was then a little village. The vivid image of myself standing on the herd of oyster shells, feeling the breeze and facing the sea, trying to have a far glimpse of 蛇口 at the opposite side is still with me.
We took bus in Yuen Long. The fare was under $4 yet the traveling time was 45 minutes. What a real bargain. The bus was packed from start to finish. We got off, and some of the ladies rushed to take photos with the 小桃園酒家, which raised to fame because of a mysterious gathering. After the ladies shared their photos with friends via iphones, we could proceed to our restaurant.
Before reaching our destination, we had to go through a bustling path filled of small stores selling local things. We saw dried seafood, dried nuts, local pastries and so and so. It was the typical set up of any seafood street, but the scale in 流浮山 was smaller.
We ordered abalones, oysters, razor clams, shrimps, and scampi in the seafood menu, and some other common dishes like chicken rings and sweet and sour pork to ensure our stomachs full. The food was delicious, and the price was acceptable, with three red notes slipped out of everybody's wallets.
So, we left at 9:30 pm and arrived home around 11 pm. The little trip was a happy one.
We first had a little walk in the famous 南生圍. Situated in Yuen Long, the place is always associated with the not so likable crocodile Bui Bui, which was caught there and relocated to our wetland park and has been living there since then. It is stupid yet common that good things are always adhered by irrelevant stuff, by chance.
南生圍 is a funny place. It could be reached in a 15-minute walking distance from the MTR station. The place is separated from the busy world by Shan Bui River, which is more like a ditch. To cross the river, we got on the hand-rowing sampan that costed each of us $5. Just another little exotic experience. Then we took some drinks in a local store. I was allured by those handmade local pastries. The stuff was baked by wood and fire. However, I was restricted to complete the transaction. What a pity.
We then started our walk. It was already 4:30 pm. Luckily, the weather was excellent. The sky was blue, the air fresh and the scene stunningly beautiful. Strolling along the mud path, we could enjoy the natural landscape. The yard was wide-open, there were some low hills at the far end. Right in front of us, there were the neat vegetation, small ponds and few houses sparingly stood on the ground. It was like Greece, and a reminiscence to Theos Angelopolis' movies. However, I was waken up by packs of crowd.
It was a Saturday and thus collision with crowd was inevitable in each and every corners of HK. We saw cyclers, youngsters and many amateur photographers. A lovely Pug impressed me most.
Then we went to 流浮山 for dinner. I haven't been there for over 25 years. It was then a little village. The vivid image of myself standing on the herd of oyster shells, feeling the breeze and facing the sea, trying to have a far glimpse of 蛇口 at the opposite side is still with me.
We took bus in Yuen Long. The fare was under $4 yet the traveling time was 45 minutes. What a real bargain. The bus was packed from start to finish. We got off, and some of the ladies rushed to take photos with the 小桃園酒家, which raised to fame because of a mysterious gathering. After the ladies shared their photos with friends via iphones, we could proceed to our restaurant.
Before reaching our destination, we had to go through a bustling path filled of small stores selling local things. We saw dried seafood, dried nuts, local pastries and so and so. It was the typical set up of any seafood street, but the scale in 流浮山 was smaller.
We ordered abalones, oysters, razor clams, shrimps, and scampi in the seafood menu, and some other common dishes like chicken rings and sweet and sour pork to ensure our stomachs full. The food was delicious, and the price was acceptable, with three red notes slipped out of everybody's wallets.
So, we left at 9:30 pm and arrived home around 11 pm. The little trip was a happy one.
2012年3月13日 星期二
The Day of the Jackal - 20120313
The novel was written by Frederick Forsyth, who was a guest of the HK Book Fair last year. He was interviewed by Sir David Tang. I had no idea on the man then. Gweilos are of the same face.
Somehow, I took up the book. I devoured it quickly. While the word "meticulous" is becoming a cliché, especially during appraisal, Frederick Forsyth could nevertheless be crowned the label, in the orthodox way.
The story was on an attempt of assassination of Charles de Gaulle. Frederick Forsyth gave the plot a very logical and detailed depiction on everything. The method of killing the Grand Zohra. The appointment of the assassin. Everything has a cause.
And the preparation of the assassination was particularly outstanding. The little-know method of getting a fake passport was demonstrated. To seal the gun, it was masqueraded as a clutch and thus a bespoke weapon has to be crafted. Shooting range, traveling route, contingency plan, all the stuff have been precisely calculated.
Reading something as good as it would give someone a joyful break.
Somehow, I took up the book. I devoured it quickly. While the word "meticulous" is becoming a cliché, especially during appraisal, Frederick Forsyth could nevertheless be crowned the label, in the orthodox way.
The story was on an attempt of assassination of Charles de Gaulle. Frederick Forsyth gave the plot a very logical and detailed depiction on everything. The method of killing the Grand Zohra. The appointment of the assassin. Everything has a cause.
And the preparation of the assassination was particularly outstanding. The little-know method of getting a fake passport was demonstrated. To seal the gun, it was masqueraded as a clutch and thus a bespoke weapon has to be crafted. Shooting range, traveling route, contingency plan, all the stuff have been precisely calculated.
Reading something as good as it would give someone a joyful break.
Reading - 20120307
In a pseudo-casual occasion, people had to recommend something to read. The result was funny. Putting aside the doubt on their zeal of reading, the list of recommendation could represent Hong Kongers' taste quite well.
The big boss introduced a book to teach us to be docile. Two of the smaller bosses, coincidentally yet unsurprisingly, kept blasting on the popular book written by Dale Carnegie. They knew human-beings well. Among the rest, some said that books that were encouraging and moving were good. They had kind hearts. Others had chosen the books in their own trade to promote. Understandable indeed.
Actually, we are too tired, too occupied even after work. Reading could only take place out of practical needs.
The big boss introduced a book to teach us to be docile. Two of the smaller bosses, coincidentally yet unsurprisingly, kept blasting on the popular book written by Dale Carnegie. They knew human-beings well. Among the rest, some said that books that were encouraging and moving were good. They had kind hearts. Others had chosen the books in their own trade to promote. Understandable indeed.
Actually, we are too tired, too occupied even after work. Reading could only take place out of practical needs.
2012年3月6日 星期二
Dehumidifier - 20120305
Living in Hong Kong, we face some perennial predicaments. Just to name a few. We could not vote for our chief executive. We live in shoe boxes. We eat in chain-stores. Albeit the downside, the everlasting misty air causes some stirs.
Except autumn, we face the high humidity round-the-clock, no matter cold or hot. In these few days, the hygrometer peaks out at 100%. We could virtually breathe in water. While running, every pore of our skin is blocked by mist. One could hardly sweat. At home, washed clothes are everlastingly wet. It is annoying. And finally, I am forced to buy a dehumidifier, in the vague hope of getting some kinds of ease. At least, those grumbles and mumbles could be alleviated.
We opted for Mitsubishi. The reason is simple. It is made in Japan. We had a look at the appliance shops in shopping arcade. I was a bit stunned to see that many people were competing for dehumidifiers in such intensity. It was like a war on special edition Nike trainers. We found our target, with the selling price at $3,400. Before nailing down the deal, we took a second look at the price comparing platform in internet, and found that a store sold the same thing at $3,200. At 5 pm, I called that shop. The order was confirmed and the goods would be delivered at my home at 8:30 pm. I finally received the machine at 8 pm.
It was a nice deal to save time, effort as well as money.
Except autumn, we face the high humidity round-the-clock, no matter cold or hot. In these few days, the hygrometer peaks out at 100%. We could virtually breathe in water. While running, every pore of our skin is blocked by mist. One could hardly sweat. At home, washed clothes are everlastingly wet. It is annoying. And finally, I am forced to buy a dehumidifier, in the vague hope of getting some kinds of ease. At least, those grumbles and mumbles could be alleviated.
We opted for Mitsubishi. The reason is simple. It is made in Japan. We had a look at the appliance shops in shopping arcade. I was a bit stunned to see that many people were competing for dehumidifiers in such intensity. It was like a war on special edition Nike trainers. We found our target, with the selling price at $3,400. Before nailing down the deal, we took a second look at the price comparing platform in internet, and found that a store sold the same thing at $3,200. At 5 pm, I called that shop. The order was confirmed and the goods would be delivered at my home at 8:30 pm. I finally received the machine at 8 pm.
It was a nice deal to save time, effort as well as money.
2012年2月28日 星期二
J Edgar - 20120228
The film was on the topic that was so unfamiliar with us. It was an autobiography of Hoover, the first head of FBI. He held the office for 37 years.
It is hard to think a truly democratic nation likes US would allow a person to sit on such an important post for so long. Where is the check and balance? That's real-politik, huh. There would never be perfect thing. So, if you were the president, Hoover threw a file about your wife's secretive homosexual life on your face, you would have let him serve his country, like those smart presidents did.
DiCaprio dominated the play from start to finish. He acted so well, yet has not been nominated for the Oscar. It confirms the later a ridicule. The movie was fine. Nevertheless, it was a bemusing moment that when Hoover and Tolson kissed, the full house laughed. Clint Eastwood could never manage to handle the Brokeback Mountain.
There are quite a number of films on espionage, more or less. For light-hearted one, we have The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. And after J Edgar, we would have Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy which would be launched in March. By watching both movies, it would be a good way to compare how dirty things would be conducted between the American and English ways, though Hoover was a genuine guy whilst Smiley a fictitious character.
It is hard to think a truly democratic nation likes US would allow a person to sit on such an important post for so long. Where is the check and balance? That's real-politik, huh. There would never be perfect thing. So, if you were the president, Hoover threw a file about your wife's secretive homosexual life on your face, you would have let him serve his country, like those smart presidents did.
DiCaprio dominated the play from start to finish. He acted so well, yet has not been nominated for the Oscar. It confirms the later a ridicule. The movie was fine. Nevertheless, it was a bemusing moment that when Hoover and Tolson kissed, the full house laughed. Clint Eastwood could never manage to handle the Brokeback Mountain.
There are quite a number of films on espionage, more or less. For light-hearted one, we have The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. And after J Edgar, we would have Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy which would be launched in March. By watching both movies, it would be a good way to compare how dirty things would be conducted between the American and English ways, though Hoover was a genuine guy whilst Smiley a fictitious character.
2012年2月22日 星期三
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold - 20120222
Some books could only be admired when you are getting older. This novel is one of those.
Malcolm Gladwell said he has read the book once every five years since he was 15. He started to understand it the third time, that is, when he was 25. If it is true, he is pretty clever, as I doubt I could know an ounce by reading it at the same age. And I have never read any of Gladwell's best sellers.
The novel gets merely 252 pages. Nevertheless, it shines on every aspects. The structure of the story, the beauty of some sentences and most of all, the sharpness of views.
John le Carre is a maestro of story-telling. He traps readers by deftly twisting the story at any point he likes. I knew it from The Most Wanted Man. And The Spy Who Came in from the Cold does an even better job. It is a set-up of set-ups. So, re-reading is necessary to have better understanding of the plot.
People contrast le Carre's works to Fleming's. James Bond is a mass thing. It could be exciting while watching 007's movies. Regarding le Carre, his work gives a profound depiction to human beings, via the squalid operation of espionage. While finished reading this novel, I was so thrilled and moved.
le Carre is still alive at his eighties. I am quite interested in his acting in the coming film, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy.
Malcolm Gladwell said he has read the book once every five years since he was 15. He started to understand it the third time, that is, when he was 25. If it is true, he is pretty clever, as I doubt I could know an ounce by reading it at the same age. And I have never read any of Gladwell's best sellers.
The novel gets merely 252 pages. Nevertheless, it shines on every aspects. The structure of the story, the beauty of some sentences and most of all, the sharpness of views.
John le Carre is a maestro of story-telling. He traps readers by deftly twisting the story at any point he likes. I knew it from The Most Wanted Man. And The Spy Who Came in from the Cold does an even better job. It is a set-up of set-ups. So, re-reading is necessary to have better understanding of the plot.
People contrast le Carre's works to Fleming's. James Bond is a mass thing. It could be exciting while watching 007's movies. Regarding le Carre, his work gives a profound depiction to human beings, via the squalid operation of espionage. While finished reading this novel, I was so thrilled and moved.
le Carre is still alive at his eighties. I am quite interested in his acting in the coming film, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy.
2012年1月27日 星期五
North Point Pier - 20120120
It is always a pleasure to cross the Victoria Harbour by ferry, if time allows. The case is particularly true in North Point.
Normally, it would be quickest to take MTR, if one does not mind compulsive body contact. However, the design of Quarry Bay station is a joke. You have to walk through the winding maze, take three escalators and pass hundreds of time-rushers to finally reach the correct platform, given that you has not gotten lost.
Or you could ride a bus, to avoid stranding in the Quarry Bay MTR matrix. Downsides are, the not-so-mild traffic congestion and densely packed bus compartment.
So, it's real good to opt for ferry. There are so many interesting things to see. Next to the North Point Pier, we could find a dog park. After dealing with dog-like human beings for a whole day in the workplace, encountering real dogs make you happy and relax. Subject to the destination you are heading to, different animals for different purposes could be seen. To Hung Hom or Kowloon City, you could buy lots of seafood for your dinner, as there are several stalls selling loads of fresh seafood in sundry species. However, I always prefer the other end to Kwun Tong.
There are three aces in the Pier to Kwun Tong. They are cats, I would name them A, B and C. Three aces possess different characters. A, a yellow one, is a normal cat which does not give a shit to any passenger. A likes to stay on top of the refrigerator, coolly looks down at us. B, a three-colour cat, is a curious dancer. B would run around when it hear any high pitch sound. And B could do one special wonder. It would saunter near someone, lay down and roll over its body. This is really amazing. C, the dark brown one, is a slut. It just flirts with anyone. C could poach on you legs forever, no matter how you tease it. Undoubtedly, three aces could make you happy.
On the ferry, you could see the changing serenity of sea. In summer, golden sunbeam is still lingering at 7pm. In winter, sunbeam gone, simmering light across the strait gives you the manmade beauty. The ferry is spacious, you could take a nap, read a book or do nothing at all, comfortably.
Normally, it would be quickest to take MTR, if one does not mind compulsive body contact. However, the design of Quarry Bay station is a joke. You have to walk through the winding maze, take three escalators and pass hundreds of time-rushers to finally reach the correct platform, given that you has not gotten lost.
Or you could ride a bus, to avoid stranding in the Quarry Bay MTR matrix. Downsides are, the not-so-mild traffic congestion and densely packed bus compartment.
So, it's real good to opt for ferry. There are so many interesting things to see. Next to the North Point Pier, we could find a dog park. After dealing with dog-like human beings for a whole day in the workplace, encountering real dogs make you happy and relax. Subject to the destination you are heading to, different animals for different purposes could be seen. To Hung Hom or Kowloon City, you could buy lots of seafood for your dinner, as there are several stalls selling loads of fresh seafood in sundry species. However, I always prefer the other end to Kwun Tong.
There are three aces in the Pier to Kwun Tong. They are cats, I would name them A, B and C. Three aces possess different characters. A, a yellow one, is a normal cat which does not give a shit to any passenger. A likes to stay on top of the refrigerator, coolly looks down at us. B, a three-colour cat, is a curious dancer. B would run around when it hear any high pitch sound. And B could do one special wonder. It would saunter near someone, lay down and roll over its body. This is really amazing. C, the dark brown one, is a slut. It just flirts with anyone. C could poach on you legs forever, no matter how you tease it. Undoubtedly, three aces could make you happy.
On the ferry, you could see the changing serenity of sea. In summer, golden sunbeam is still lingering at 7pm. In winter, sunbeam gone, simmering light across the strait gives you the manmade beauty. The ferry is spacious, you could take a nap, read a book or do nothing at all, comfortably.
2012年1月17日 星期二
南北極 - 20120117
上星期二晚看電視，介紹動物如何在冬天的南北極生存，非常好看。
先看北極。兩條狼在追趕著一群犛牛。狼成功引出一頭犛牛後，犛牛便與其中一狼決鬥。如果犛牛是哥利亞，狼就是大衛；結果如出一轍，重點是其過程。狼藉其輕巧身形，突襲龐大犛牛的要害，例如肚、腿。犛牛受襲，不住的以頭猛撞狼，狼被撞得奄奄一息。在大雪中，牠們為性命作困獸之鬥，氣氛肅穆。最終，狼的韌力稍勝。整個場面，驚心動魄，即使阿里對傅利沙也未必及牠們「拳拳到肉」。旁白描述，戰鬥歷時個多小時！攝制隊專業冷峻，不會訛裝判官，判斷誰的生命更昂貴，拯救垂危一方。
再看南極，帝皇企鵝出場。如果有「最深情動物選舉」，帝皇企鵝應可摘下桂冠。牠們的深情是多面的。例如父愛。在嚴寒的南極冬天，日照稀罕。帝皇企鵝爸爸們擠在一起，互相取暖。為了養育子女，企鵝爸爸把稚子夾在腳間，絕不容許牠們沾染半點風霜。黑暗漫長，在無止境的等待中，企鵝爸爸沒有患上精神病，也是恩典。等待的是甚麼呢？是母愛，還有愛情。帝皇企鵝媽媽出外獵食，餵哺兒女。媽媽沒有因為環境惡劣，拋夫棄子。她們信守承諾，千里歸來，把母愛反饋。重遇丈夫，互相摩擦頸項，溫馨洋溢。如果人類能夠學其一二，天下可太平。
可惜，今晚不能看了。
先看北極。兩條狼在追趕著一群犛牛。狼成功引出一頭犛牛後，犛牛便與其中一狼決鬥。如果犛牛是哥利亞，狼就是大衛；結果如出一轍，重點是其過程。狼藉其輕巧身形，突襲龐大犛牛的要害，例如肚、腿。犛牛受襲，不住的以頭猛撞狼，狼被撞得奄奄一息。在大雪中，牠們為性命作困獸之鬥，氣氛肅穆。最終，狼的韌力稍勝。整個場面，驚心動魄，即使阿里對傅利沙也未必及牠們「拳拳到肉」。旁白描述，戰鬥歷時個多小時！攝制隊專業冷峻，不會訛裝判官，判斷誰的生命更昂貴，拯救垂危一方。
再看南極，帝皇企鵝出場。如果有「最深情動物選舉」，帝皇企鵝應可摘下桂冠。牠們的深情是多面的。例如父愛。在嚴寒的南極冬天，日照稀罕。帝皇企鵝爸爸們擠在一起，互相取暖。為了養育子女，企鵝爸爸把稚子夾在腳間，絕不容許牠們沾染半點風霜。黑暗漫長，在無止境的等待中，企鵝爸爸沒有患上精神病，也是恩典。等待的是甚麼呢？是母愛，還有愛情。帝皇企鵝媽媽出外獵食，餵哺兒女。媽媽沒有因為環境惡劣，拋夫棄子。她們信守承諾，千里歸來，把母愛反饋。重遇丈夫，互相摩擦頸項，溫馨洋溢。如果人類能夠學其一二，天下可太平。
可惜，今晚不能看了。
2012年1月9日 星期一
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - 20120109
I watched the movie last Saturday in AMC Festival Walk.
Unexpectedly, the movie was shown in one of the biggest houses. I thought it might not be that popular, as it was classified as grade three, and the novel was not as popular as Harry Porter in Hong Kong. I was quite wrong, as the house was nearly full.
The opening of the film was stimulating. Those surreal 3-D animations of the two protagonists were to me a reminiscence of Spiritualized's CD Let It Come Down. The cover song of Immigrant Song from Led Zeppelin fitted in completely. However, after this exciting opening, the film was quite dry in the following 30 or 45 minutes. I nearly felt asleep for several times, until Rooney Mara shown up in her guardian's home.
Then the movie was entertaining all the way to the end. Daniel Craig was such a malleable actor. It was a marvelous job to handle both the muscular James Bond as well as a Scandinavian intellectual Mikael Bromkvist in convincing ways. Rooney Mara was even better. It was stunning to frame into such an outcast by such a feminine lady. And it was quite head-scratching for people to yell at H&M for producing Lisbeth's wardrobe. They said that Lisbeth was a victim of sexual abuse. I see her as a heroine who revenge beautifully. Lisbeth is a flawed yet humane role model.
Both Craig and Mara are booked for the rest of the trilogy. Nevertheless, David Fincher, the director, is not ensured to take up the sequels, as the revenue of the starter was "modest". To me, it would be fine if Christopher Nolan is to replace the hot bed.
Unexpectedly, the movie was shown in one of the biggest houses. I thought it might not be that popular, as it was classified as grade three, and the novel was not as popular as Harry Porter in Hong Kong. I was quite wrong, as the house was nearly full.
The opening of the film was stimulating. Those surreal 3-D animations of the two protagonists were to me a reminiscence of Spiritualized's CD Let It Come Down. The cover song of Immigrant Song from Led Zeppelin fitted in completely. However, after this exciting opening, the film was quite dry in the following 30 or 45 minutes. I nearly felt asleep for several times, until Rooney Mara shown up in her guardian's home.
Then the movie was entertaining all the way to the end. Daniel Craig was such a malleable actor. It was a marvelous job to handle both the muscular James Bond as well as a Scandinavian intellectual Mikael Bromkvist in convincing ways. Rooney Mara was even better. It was stunning to frame into such an outcast by such a feminine lady. And it was quite head-scratching for people to yell at H&M for producing Lisbeth's wardrobe. They said that Lisbeth was a victim of sexual abuse. I see her as a heroine who revenge beautifully. Lisbeth is a flawed yet humane role model.
Both Craig and Mara are booked for the rest of the trilogy. Nevertheless, David Fincher, the director, is not ensured to take up the sequels, as the revenue of the starter was "modest". To me, it would be fine if Christopher Nolan is to replace the hot bed.
2012年1月5日 星期四
Office - 20120105
After hearing so many stories from numerous Hes and Shes, and encountering countless funny events in different places by oneself, it could easily be concluded that office is a hideous place by nature, regardless its scale.
We face different archetypes. Bosses are invincible in every aspects except computer. Secretaries are public enemies, yet they are de facto appraisers of your performance. Co-workers, for nicely nurtured ones, would be nice on leisure stuff. Nevertheless, while handling business tasks, even Mr Nice guys would become bloodhounds, pierce vulnerable prays into pieces without regret. And normal co-workers are bloodhounds of normal breed.
Justice could hardly be seen to be done in office. The most notorious cheat in it is something called appraisal. For somebody who is to be cautioned, his weakness in the qualitative aspects would never be overlooked, no matter how much has he earned for the company. Contrastingly, for loved ones, even she made no client happy, she must be an excellent team player. Appraisal is one of the most outrageous representations of manipulation.
You could see all sorts of thing in office but fun. Dealing with people is something beyond discussion. When we just look into the job itself, there could hardly be any glimpse of likable object. The subject may varies, the whole process of doing any mission is rather similar. "Plan -> Do -> Check -> Act" is the Utopian way of management. We just do anything bosses tell you to at the specific moment.
So, anybody looks for a new job, in the hope of having a better work life, is just another "Catcher in the Rye".
We face different archetypes. Bosses are invincible in every aspects except computer. Secretaries are public enemies, yet they are de facto appraisers of your performance. Co-workers, for nicely nurtured ones, would be nice on leisure stuff. Nevertheless, while handling business tasks, even Mr Nice guys would become bloodhounds, pierce vulnerable prays into pieces without regret. And normal co-workers are bloodhounds of normal breed.
Justice could hardly be seen to be done in office. The most notorious cheat in it is something called appraisal. For somebody who is to be cautioned, his weakness in the qualitative aspects would never be overlooked, no matter how much has he earned for the company. Contrastingly, for loved ones, even she made no client happy, she must be an excellent team player. Appraisal is one of the most outrageous representations of manipulation.
You could see all sorts of thing in office but fun. Dealing with people is something beyond discussion. When we just look into the job itself, there could hardly be any glimpse of likable object. The subject may varies, the whole process of doing any mission is rather similar. "Plan -> Do -> Check -> Act" is the Utopian way of management. We just do anything bosses tell you to at the specific moment.
So, anybody looks for a new job, in the hope of having a better work life, is just another "Catcher in the Rye".
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