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Barbarians at the Gate
Edge of Empire with author and journalist Edward Wong
Jul 22, 2024
Edward Wong, a diplomatic correspondent and former Beijing Bureau Chief for the New York Times, offers rich insights into his new book, exploring the complex legacy of his father's life during pivotal moments in Chinese history. They dive into the impact of the Japanese occupation and the Communist Revolution on personal identity. Wong discusses how the Qing Dynasty's legacy shapes modern China, the intricacies of war and nationalism, and how historical narratives influence perceptions in both China and the U.S., revealing the deep connections between past and present.
36:10
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Quick takeaways
- Edward Wong's book intertwines personal and historical narratives to illuminate contemporary Chinese history and its complexities.
- The podcast explores the cultural significance of Guangdong province as a vital space of migration and identity shaping within the Chinese diaspora.
Deep dives
Cultural Observations in Seoul
A notable experience in Seoul highlights the cultural emphasis on reading, observed in a public space where a significant number of people, primarily young individuals and couples, were engaged with paper books in a park. This scene contrasts with the typical summer activities in the US, where such a gathering focused on reading is rare. The discovery of this open library concept elicits admiration for the local culture and its promotion of reading as an enjoyable pastime. The contrast in cultural practices raises questions about societal engagement with literature in different parts of the world.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode