Because Dragons Are Real
Posted on July 22, 2008
Filed Under Books
Why travel in China is like being the protagonist in a fantasy novel… Not a comparison that leaps to mind, but here are some convincing arguments!
I’ve noticed a certain similarity between my reading matter and my life. Some of the reasons overlap with Sinoplice’s brilliant “Why China Is Like An RPG”. Travel in China, like fantasy books, offers an escape from a monotonous life. Money is counted in “pieces” and dragons are real.
1) The way is fraught with peril. There’s no quick travel, the path from point A to Point B is always full of adventures. Come on, Frodo couldn’t just hop on the next plane to Mordor!
2) Dire predictions of doom. In fantasy stories, the protagonists are constantly warned about their destination, just like in China. “I heard of a foreign traveler who tried to reach Penglai by bus. We never saw him again.” or “You seek to visit Beijing? In October? Turn back while you still can!”
Via Why Travel In China Is Like Being the Protagonist In A Fantasy Novel
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