Qinhuai Moonlight: A Map of Nanjing's Nightlife

Author: Liu Wenqin / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features:
(1) Urban Characteristics – Sluggishness, Heaviness, and Melancholy
Nanjing has a long history, abundant historical and cultural heritage, and a widely educated populace. At the same time, Nanjing is also a city of "nothingness"—the prosperity of the Six Dynasties has long faded into the clouds, and the honor of being the capital has been difficult to restore due to the devastation of fascism. Shanghai, once a small fishing village subordinate to Nanjing, has now become an international metropolis. In the new round of urban competition, Nanjing lags behind cities like Suzhou and Wuxi in the same province. Nanjing people often feel somber and oppressed, as if they have become the "interior" of Jiangsu. Therefore, Nanjing's cultural figures categorize their city as "a city that has lost its soul" and an "melancholic and solitary city." From the historical perspective of ancient Jinling, the dynasties that ruled here were short-lived and endured countless hardships. This has largely contributed to Nanjing's current appearance: "a noble city with nothing lacking, yet seemingly nothing outstanding." Despite its superior geographical location and profound cultural heritage, Nanjing lacks any glaring features. You could call it a very moderate city, without any sharp edges, but its heavy history allows people to understand more, such as how to live and work. The depth of its history gives Nanjing a profound character, and those with depth often hide within this city. In summary, Nanjing's urban spirit is inclusive, simple, unassuming yet slightly reserved, and deeply rooted. On the surface, it appears ordinary, but beneath lies immense tension. A large number of avant-garde poets and writers, such as Su Tong, Han Dong, and Zhu Wen, along with Nanjing-based artists like Xu Lei, Jin Weihong, Zhao Qin, Wu Jian, and Yu Xiaoyu, hold an undeniable mainstream position nationwide. This is rare among provincial capitals and also testifies to Nanjing's enduring cultural creativity rooted in its deep historical soil. Due to the tragic history of the Anti-Japanese War, Nanjing is often misunderstood. In reality, its modern history cannot hide its hedonistic traditions as a famous city in Jiangnan. Nanjing people appear lacking ambition, easily satisfied, and lacking drive—"that sluggishness seems comfortable, but in fact, it halts the city's progress." Nanjing media once compiled a "menu" of the "Top 10 Cultural Symbols of Nanjing," including the Jinling Hotel, Linyuan Avenue, Wutai Mountain, and Confucius Temple, as well as da luobo (large radishes), salted duck, Su Tong, "what a big deal," Yangtze Evening News, and "Very Weekend." These fully fall under the category of urban culture. Many Nanjing people, burdened by history for too long, find joy in the opportunity to be vulgar and carefree. Some say Nanjing's culture lacks distinctiveness, but perhaps the lack of distinctiveness itself is Nanjing's greatest characteristic. On Nanjing's streets, shaded by dense (silk trees), the essence of a lifestyle-oriented metropolis is evident. This city is truly extraordinary for its vibrant nightlife.
(2) The Personality of Nanjing People – The Hollow Radish
Nanjing is an inclusive city, and the personalities of its people are also simple, benevolent, and refined. It has the capacity to assimilate different people and cultures. An outsider who lives in Nanjing for a few years can easily become a true Nanjing resident. In Fortress Besieged, Zhao Ximen is described as "a big body but a small heart, like a hollow radish." What does "hollow radish" mean? It means "naive and lovable." Every nation has its national character, and every place has its local character. Nanjing people are fully aware that they lack the business acumen of Wenzhou people or the sharpness and flexibility of Shanghai people. However, Nanjing people are hardworking, diligent, and do things in an orderly and down-to-earth manner—this is Nanjing's strength. Perhaps this is why some see them as "radishes." The () of Nanjing people is "what a big deal," which reflects both their sluggishness and their magnanimity, showing that they can take things in stride. The common people of Nanjing are simple and honest, (enthusiastic) about public causes, friendly, open-minded, and accepting of all foreign things. Of course, they can also be mercenary at times, and some service staff in commercial establishments even give the impression of being leftovers from the planned economy era. P6-7