And the Shanghai Expo begins..
I caught the ceremonial launch of the World Expo in Shanghai on television like any good Shanghai resident, away from the maddening crowds. It showed spectacular views of…
Street Stories
Shanghai Cops: They’re watching you
Yes, they’re everywhere. Shanghai’s finest, its hierarchy of police men and women, district security guards (协管) and traffic cops are out in full force. In fact, there are…
The gentleman who does construction
In his paint-speckled work jacket, he had a laizzare-faire air about him that was striking yet charming at the same time. A profile shot was irresistible. Yet at…
All animals are comrades
“All men are enemies. All animals are comrades.” – George Orwell, Animal Farm, Ch. 1 At first sight, the chicken was sleeping. Next to it, the sign screamed…
"Speak softly, but carry a big can of paint."
Wandering along the graffiti street on Moganshan Lu, I counted 4 wedding shoots, 3 model shoots, 2 motor bikers (preening and then roaring down the street) and 1…
The taxi rest stop
You could say that it’s one of the most colorful public toilets in Shanghai. That is if you can spot it amidst a long trail of graffiti winding…
Portraits of Strangers #1
In thy face I see the map of honor, truth, and loyalty. – William Shakespeare, King Henry VI There’s no art To find the mind’s construction…
Malchik*
“The tanks are coming! The enemies are surrounding us!” he screamed, dodging bullets from the machine guns spraying from all sides. “Fatty! Quick! Hand me the grenade!” Fatty,…
The Love of Kite-flying Part Two
It was a most random yet lovely sight. Spread out over a large field, with tall incinerators serving as a backdrop and passing ships along the Huangpu River…
The love of kite-flying part one
It was a brilliantly sunny day, perfect for random exploration. The adage of “It’s not the destination but the journey” rang bold and true. Driving along the entire stretch…