2026-11-11

人間故事

A Story of Life


Amid the hum of the airport lounge, I sat quietly and overheard two friends chatting nearby.


They spoke of an elderly friend in her eighties, who lives alone. Her children have settled in Spain and England, separated by vast oceans and unable to tend to her in person. With advancing years, her self‑care has grown harder, and her memory fades bit by bit. She spends most days confined to her home, coping as best she can. Within their means, the two friends check in on her each day and offer what comfort they can.


Then they sighed and agreed that we ought to savour joy while it lasts.


This casual snippet of conversation, overheard while waiting for a flight, invites quiet reflection. Time pauses for no one; we cannot count on endless chances to meet and be happy. Loneliness and frailty in old age are one of life’s sober truths.


We so often put life aside for “later”, unaware that time will not wait. To savour joy in the present is not reckless indulgence. It is to cherish the companionship and days we still hold.


人間故事


機場候機大廳人聲熙攘,我靜坐一旁,聽見鄰座兩位友人閒談。


他們談起一位年逾八旬的舊友。老人家獨居,子女分別定居西班牙與英國,遠隔重洋,難以近身照料。年華老去,她的自理能力日漸衰退,記憶也慢慢消散,多數時候獨守家中,凡事只能自求多福。這兩位朋友在能力所及之內,每日都會探問她的情況,送上關懷。


話說到這裡,二人慨然:人生,要及時行樂。


不過是候機時偶然聽來的一段閒話,卻引人深思。歲月從不為誰停留,相聚與歡愉,都沒有無限的預留。晚年的孤獨與無助,是漫長人生裡一份沉重的真實。


人總習慣寄望於以後,卻忽略時光不待人。這裡說的及時行樂,不是縱情放逸,而是把握當下,珍惜尚且可以擁有的陪伴與時光。

Let go

放下所愛。適時退場。

Let go of what you love. Know when to step away.

Deixa o que amas. Sabe quando te deves retirar.

《喀耳刻》(Circe)

 Circe, written by Madeline Miller, is a breathtaking literary retelling of ancient Greek mythology. Centered on the infamous witch of Aeaea, this novel reshapes a well‑known mythic villain into a powerful, deeply human heroine, exploring themes of loneliness, growth, female empowerment and the true meaning of freedom.


In traditional myths, Circe is merely a cruel enchantress who turns men into beasts. Miller completely rewrites this stereotype. Born as an overlooked, weak‑sounding daughter of the sun god Helios, Circe is ignored and belittled by her cold divine family. After discovering her forbidden gift of witchcraft, she is exiled alone to a deserted island by Zeus. For centuries, she endures total isolation, faces visiting heroes, monsters and sailors, and slowly masters her own power. From a vulnerable outcast, she grows into a fearless, self‑sufficient woman who controls her fate rather than being controlled by the gods.


What makes this novel extraordinary is its profound emotional depth. Miller contrasts hollow, eternal divine immortality with warm, fragile mortal humanity. Gods live forever but remain petty, cruel and unchanging; mortals fade fast yet experience love, pain, growth and devotion. Circe’s final choice—to abandon endless immortality and become mortal for genuine love—becomes the most courageous decision of her life. It reveals a touching truth: eternity without meaning is empty, while a limited life filled with love and autonomy is truly noble.


The writing style is elegant, lyrical and immersive. The pacing is steady and reflective, allowing readers to witness Circe’s slow yet striking transformation from insecurity to quiet strength.


Overall, Circe is more than a mythic story. It is a timeless journey of self‑discovery. It teaches readers that true power does not lie in immortality or status, but in independence, kindness and the courage to define oneself. I highly recommend this inspiring, beautifully crafted novel to every reader who appreciates classic mythology and emotional growth.


《喀耳刻》(Circe),作者瑪德琳·米勒,是一部動人的文學重寫本,取材自古希臘神話。書中把傳說裡惡名昭彰的艾亞島女巫,從單純的反派形象,重塑成一個飽含人性、一路自我覺醒的女主角,探討孤獨、成長、女性力量,以及自由的真義。


在傳統神話裡,喀耳刻只是一個會把男人變成野獸的殘酷巫師。米勒推翻了這個刻板印象:她是太陽神赫利俄斯備受冷落的女兒,在冰冷的神族之中一直被輕視、貶低。當她發現自己擁有巫術這份禁忌力量後,宙斯將她流放至荒島,獨自度日。漫長歲月裡,她飽受孤獨,陸續遇見各路英雄、怪物與航海者,慢慢掌握自身力量。從一個自卑、無助的邊緣者,蛻變成能夠掌握自己命運、堅定自持的女性。


這本書最動人之處,在濃厚的情感層次。作者對比了空洞的神之永生,與溫柔卻脆弱的凡人生命。諸神長生不死,心胸卻狹隘、殘酷、一成不變;凡人生命短暫,卻能感受愛、悲傷、成長與忠誠。喀耳刻最後的選擇——放棄永恆的不死之身,成為凡人,去換取真實的愛,是全書最勇敢的決定。它道出一個動人的道理:沒有意義的永恆只是空虛,有限卻能夠自主、充滿愛的生命,才更珍貴。


文筆詩意優美,節奏從容沉靜,讓讀者細細感受喀耳刻由不安走向內在堅定的漫長轉變。


總括而言,《喀耳刻》不只是一則神話故事,更是一場永恆的自我追尋之旅。它告訴我們,真正的力量不在長生或地位,而在獨立、善意,以及勇於定義自己的勇氣。推薦給喜愛古典神話、重視心靈成長的讀者。

一場巴士小插曲,看盡人情百態

A Small Bus Incident That Reflects Human Nature


While riding Bus 101 today, I witnessed a subtle yet thought-provoking incident that perfectly mirrors the diverse sides of human character.


Shortly after I boarded the bus, a young woman occupied two priority seats designated for senior citizens. She did so solely out of necessity, as her bulky luggage required extra space. At that moment, an elderly woman approached her in an impolite tone, reproaching the young woman for taking reserved seats and insisting that she immediately give them up. The young woman remained completely unresponsive, either confused by the sudden confrontation or choosing to stay calm amid the unreasonable blame.


The awkward atmosphere soon drew attention from other elderly passengers. Surprisingly, another senior woman spoke out fairly and gently. She pointed out that rude accusations did no honour to older people. True respect, she said, comes from polite communication, not from acting presumptuously because of age. Age never equals privilege. Her reasonable words were immediately echoed and supported by other elderly passengers, who agreed that kindness and courtesy should always come first, while also kindly reminding the young woman to offer her seat when feasible.


This ordinary yet touching episode offers a profound lesson about humanity. People’s manners and tolerance are never defined by their age. Some carry years yet lack grace, while others grow older with wisdom and gentleness.


In just a brief moment on public transport, I once again witnessed the countless faces of life: sharp-tempered impatience on one side, and forgiving understanding on the other.


今日搭乘101巴士,途中遇見一場微小卻耐人尋味的生活插曲,短短數分鐘,便映照出最真實的人情百態。


上車不久,車廂內發生一段小小的爭執。一位獨自乘車的年輕女生,因為攜帶大型行李,一時佔用了兩個長者專座。其實她並非刻意霸位,隻是行李體積龐大,一時無處安放。


此時,一位年長長者上前,語氣不友善地責備女生,直言她不該佔用長者優先座位,要求她立刻讓位。面對長者的嚴厲責問,年輕女生並沒有爭辯,也沒有明顯反應,或許是來不及反應,亦或只是沉默應對。


就在氣氛略顯尷尬之際,車上另一位長者主動出聲調解、出言公道。她坦然表示,同為長者,更應懂得體諒與禮貌,讓位從來不是義務,更不是長者恃年齡優勢的理所當然。與人相處,以禮待人、溫和溝通即可,無需動氣指責,更不該有「長者大晒」的心態。她直言,動氣責備的舉動,反而讓長者群體失了體面。


這番通透溫柔的話語,立刻得到車上多位長者乘客的一致認同。大家紛紛附和,認同體諒、禮讓、溫和溝通,才是人與人之間最珍貴的相處之道。


一場小小的巴士風波,瞬間平息。


世間人情,從不分年齡、不分身份。

有人倚老、執著己利;亦有人通透善良、心存體諒。


原來真正的修養從不在年歲長短,而在人心寬厚。

一樁平凡小事,讓人再次看見:人生百態,冷暖自知,善解與包容,永遠最動人。


Raise Me High @ HK airport 2026.11.11

 



2026-11-10

Line dance - Amazeballs

 


《克拉克森的农场》

Clarkson’s Farm

Clarkson’s Farm is a popular British reality documentary streaming on Amazon Prime. It follows Jeremy Clarkson, a well‑known TV presenter with no real farming experience, as he tries to run his own large farm in the countryside.

Expecting a relaxing rural life, Clarkson soon faces endless troubles. Bad weather, expensive machinery, complicated official rules and uncooperative animals keep causing trouble. With help from his young farmhand Kaleb and land agent Charlie, he struggles with sowing crops, raising sheep and opening a farm shop. Even after hard work through the whole year, he barely makes any profit.

This series is full of funny moments, yet it shows the harsh reality of modern farming. It lets audiences see how risky and tiring farmers’ work is. I really enjoy the natural humour and real‑life stories. The only small downside is that some farming policy details may be confusing for foreign viewers.



《克拉克森的农场》

英文:Clarkson’s Farm,亚马逊高分纪实真人秀,也有同名书籍。

故事梗概


主角杰里米·克拉克森,是知名汽车节目《Top Gear》的主持人,完全不懂种田。他在英国乡下买下一大片农场(Diddly Squat,戏称“一毛之地”),原本雇别人打理;原农夫退休后,他决定自己亲自经营农场一整年,全程拍摄记录。


他本来想象浪漫田园生活,现实却是一地鸡毛:


1. 种地处处踩坑:买昂贵兰博基尼拖拉机却不会操作;播种遇到特大暴雨、春天大干旱,又碰上疫情;辛苦忙活一整年,全年净赚仅144英镑,几乎白干。


2. 饲养动物状况百出:养羊、养猪、养蜂,羊乱跑、猪越狱、蜜蜂追人;要接生小羊、剪羊毛,经常被动物折腾得哭笑不得。


3. 团队搭档:


• 年轻本地农夫 凯勒布:懂农事,经常吐槽克拉克森的外行操作;


• 土地经纪人 查理:天天提醒法规、预算,疯狂泼冷水;

几个人一边吵架一边合伙硬撑农场。


核心讲了两件事


1. 打破都市人的田园美梦

田园不是悠闲治愈,农业极度辛苦,要看天气、受市场、政府法规层层限制,投入巨大,利润微薄,失败是家常便饭。


2. 欢笑之下看见真实农民处境

用搞笑的外壳,讲英国现代农业困境:极端气候、官僚审批、物价成本上涨、补贴政策、环境保护和农耕之间的矛盾,让人笑完又会同情普通农民的难处。


后续季发展


一季又一季,他继续折腾:开农场商店、想开餐厅被政府驳回、接手乡村酒吧、尝试高科技农机,不断碰壁,但仍然坚持经营这片农场。


简单一句话总结:一个有钱的外行大佬下乡当农民,不断翻车、爆笑,同时揭开农业残酷现实的纪录片。

《Incendies 》(2010)


Director: Denis Villeneuve

Adapted from Wajdi Mouawad’s play

Oscar-nominated for Best Foreign Language Film


Incendies is Denis Villeneuve’s breakthrough masterpiece. It begins with a cryptic will: twins Jeanne and Simon must trace two unknown family members from their mother’s past. As they journey through a war‑scarred Middle Eastern country, flashbacks reveal Nawal’s brutal life amid sectarian conflict. The shattering revelation binds the father and the missing brother into one person, a fate steeped in ancient tragic structure. Villeneuve avoids loud melodrama; his calm, precise visual style makes the pain land even harder. At its core, the film asks whether hatred and trauma pass down bloodlines, and if confronting unbearable truth is the only path to stop repeating violence. It is haunting, intellectually sharp and emotionally exhausting.


(《焦土之城》)


《焦土之城》是丹尼·維倫紐瓦的代表作,改編劇本,入圍奧斯卡最佳外語片。一對加拿大雙胞胎珍寧與西蒙,在母親納瓦爾離世後,收到遺囑的離奇囑咐:分別送一封信給他們以為早已死去的父親,以及從未聽聞的哥哥。姐弟回到母親的祖國,在內戰殘留的土地上拼湊真相。結局的真相極為震撼,是一則現代希臘悲劇。導演風格克制、不刻意煽動血腥畫面,探討宗派仇恨、跨代創傷,以及唯有直面難以承受的真相,才有可能斬斷仇恨的循環。氣氛極沉重,不適合放鬆觀看。

愛情百態,終歸人心

人世間最耐人尋味的風景,往往不在遠山長海,而在情義之間的抉擇與堅持。本週旅途之中,我聽到兩段歷經數十年的愛情往事,溫柔執著,讓人看見平凡感情裡的長情;轉眼一則熱議新聞,又使人直面人性的幽微與無常。短短兩日的對照,引人重新思索愛情的本質。


一位友人年少時已有交往的戀人,日子平穩,卻少了靈魂契合的共鳴。一次偶然相識,她遇見另一位異性,短暫交集後便斷了音訊。兩年之後,二人意外重逢。男子明知她身有歸屬,仍以真誠相待,心意坦蕩。這份相待,促使她靜下心審視原本的感情,權衡內心真正的嚮往。她選擇結束不合適的關係,奔赴懂得珍惜她的人。這一次清醒的抉擇,成就一段數十年的姻緣,二人攜手至今,歲月安寧,情深不移。可貴的從非一見鍾情的轟動,而是辨明本心、勇於取捨的通透。


另一則故事,始於大學課堂。一名山東女子在基礎物理課上,結識來自珠海的男生。青春時光裡,二人各選專業,她修讀師範,他研習工程,前路看似漸行漸遠。畢業後男生返回珠海,千里相隔,在旁人眼中這段情愫多半無疾而終。她卻不顧家人反對,不懼地域遙遠,獨自南下奔赴所愛。一腔赤誠跨過山海,一份執念抵擋質疑。兩人終成眷屬,相伴走過半生,如今雙雙退休,安享平靜晚年。


兩段故事樸素無華,沒有跌宕戲劇,卻足以動人。它們說明,穩固的感情從不靠一時熱烈,而在專一、堅持與珍惜。


正當我為這份長情所感,一則商壇新聞,帶來強烈的反差。長久以來,黃仁勳在公眾印象中,是事業有成、家庭和睦的代表,與妻子相伴多年的形象,一向被視為互相扶持的典範。然而風波傳來,昔日美好的濾鏡隨之破碎。世人方知,縱使站在名利頂峰,擁有旁人難求的一切,人依然可能抵不住誘惑,背離婚姻的承諾。


平凡布衣,無聲無名,卻可以用一生守住諾言;身處風雲中心,萬物具足,也未必能守住最簡單的專一。


愛情從無貴賤高下之分。它可以是跨越山海的奔赴,成為一生溫柔的歸宿;也可以在慾望面前輕易崩塌,化為虛幻泡影。感情最終考驗的從不是境遇,而是人心。


見過長情相守,也見過中途離場,才慢慢懂得:可貴的從不是轟轟烈烈的開篇,而是歷經歲月磨煉、面對種種誘惑,依舊願意守護同一個人、守住當初的諾言。


情態萬千,人心難測。

唯有真誠,方能抵過漫長流年;唯有自持,方能守得住一世安穩。



Love Takes Many Forms, and It All Comes Down to the Heart


The most illuminating moments in life rarely unfold amid grand scenery. Instead, they emerge from the quiet choices and steady resolve that bind one human being to another. On a trip this week, I heard two love stories spanning decades — tender, grounded testaments to long‑lasting devotion in ordinary lives. Soon afterward, a widely discussed business news item laid bare the fragility and unpredictability of human nature. The stark contrast between these encounters, within just two days, invites deep reflection on what love truly means.


A friend of mine was in a relationship in her youth. Her days were stable, yet the bond lacked genuine spiritual resonance. By chance, she met another man; they connected briefly, then lost contact for two full years. When they met again, he knew she was already in a relationship. Even so, he greeted her with sincere, unreserved affection. His honesty prompted her to examine her existing partnership and listen closely to her inner voice. She ended the ill‑fitted relationship and chose the man who cherished her. That thoughtful, courageous decision grew into a marriage that has endured for decades. They still walk through life side by side, calm and devoted. What makes this story precious is not the thrill of love at first sight, but the clarity to recognise one’s truth and the courage to act on it.


The second story began in a university lecture hall. A young woman from Shandong met a boy from Zhuhai in their introductory physics class. As their studies progressed, their paths diverged: she pursued education, while he specialised in engineering. After graduation, he returned to Zhuhai, leaving thousands of miles between them. Most observers would have assumed their youthful fondness would fade with distance. Against her family’s objections and the uncertainty of starting life far from home, she travelled south to follow the man she loved. Her earnestness bridged the miles, and her determination stood firm against doubt. They married, journeyed through half a lifetime together, and now enjoy peaceful retirement.


These simple, unremarkable narratives carry quiet power. They reveal that enduring love does not depend on fleeting passion. It rests on commitment, perseverance and care.


Just as I was moved by such faithful companionship, a headline from the business world offered a sharp counterpoint. For years, Jensen Huang was widely perceived as a successful leader with a harmonious family. His long marriage was held up as a model of mutual support. The scandal that surfaced stripped away this idealised image. It reminds us that even those who have climbed to the heights of fame and fortune can still surrender to temptation and break their marital vows.


Ordinary people, without fame or wealth, can honour their promises for a lifetime. Those living in the spotlight, surrounded by every comfort, may still fail to uphold basic fidelity.


Love bears no ranking by wealth or status. It can be a crossing of mountains and seas, a lifelong haven of gentle belonging. It can also crumble before desire, dissolving into nothing but illusion. Love is ultimately tested not by circumstance, but by the human heart.


Having witnessed lifelong devotion and sudden betrayal, I have come to understand: what matters most is not a dramatic beginning, but the resolve to stay with one person and honour one’s word, through passing years and every temptation.


Love takes infinite shapes, and the human heart remains unfathomable.

Only sincerity can outlast the march of time; only self‑possession can sustain quiet, lasting peace.

2026-11-09

《Swiped 》

 Swiped, 2025, biopic, Whitney Wolfe Herd, Lily James


Swiped traces the true story of Whitney Wolfe Herd, co‑creator of Tinder and later founder of Bumble, the dating app where women send the first message. After she helps build Tinder, she faces dismissal, harassment and erasure in a male‑dominated tech circle. Driven by that bitter experience, she builds Bumble to rewrite the rules of online dating.


Lily James delivers a steady, grounded performance. The film moves at a neat pace and raises thoughtful questions about power, gender and who gets credit for innovation. Its weakness is that it softens the harshest edges of the real story, sometimes slipping into familiar inspirational biopic clichés. It is not as sharp or layered as The Social Network, yet it remains an accessible, engaging watch about resilience and reimagining a broken system.


《Swiped》改編自惠特妮·沃爾夫·赫德的真實經歷。她是Tinder的早期創辦成員,後來創立Bumble,這款約會App規定由女性主動發出第一訊息。


她協助打造Tinder之後,在男性主導的科技圈飽受職場騷擾、成果被抹煞。這段傷痛經歷推動她創立Bumble,嘗試改寫線上交友的遊戲規則。


莉莉·詹姆斯的演出沉穩自然。電影節流順暢,帶出關於性別、權力與創新背後功勞歸屬的思考。缺點是它淡化真實事件裡最殘酷的細節,有些地方落入傳統勵志傳記片的套路。它不像《社群網戰》那樣銳利深刻,但仍是好入口、有感染力的故事,講述女性在網路世界重新爭取自主空間。

《不老的大腦》


Keep Your Brain Alive by Tony Buzan overturns the common belief that brain function inevitably declines with age. The core idea is simple yet empowering: the brain does not grow old by itself; it weakens from disuse.


Age brings only slight natural memory loss. What really dulls the mind is a repetitive, unstimulating routine. The book shares practical ways to keep the brain plastic and sharp, such as light lifelong learning, regular exercise and fresh experiences.


It is an uplifting, easy‑to‑read book. Instead of fearing ageing, it encourages us to stay curious and keep thinking. A perfect light read for a journey.


 《不老的大腦》(東尼·博贊)

一、本書核心颠覆觀點(全書最精髓)

傳統觀念:年紀越大、大腦越退化、記憶力變差

本書科學結論:

大腦不會自然衰老退化,只會「閒置退化」。

大腦有終身可塑性,80歲依然可以長出新神經元、提升思維、記憶、創造力。

真正讓人變笨、遲鈍、老態的,不是年齡,而是:

長期舒適、不思考、不學習、不挑戰。


作者強調一句金句:

大腦不怕使用,只怕閒置;不怕思考,只怕停滯。


二、五大核心重點(全書精華)


1. 年齡不決定腦力,「使用習慣」才決定

人類記憶力自然衰退終身僅 5%–15%,非常微小。

我們感受到的「健忘、反應慢、腦袋鈍」

九成是長期不用腦、生活單調、缺乏刺激造成的假性老化。


2. 大腦最需要「良性壓力」而非躺平

太舒服、一成不變的生活=大腦開啟省電模式

會主動剪掉不用的神經連結,思維越來越僵化。

適度學習、新事物、新習慣、思考挑戰,

反而能逆齡活化大腦。


3. 終身可用的護腦方法(簡單、可執行)

• 保持持續輕度學習(語言、書本、新知、思維訓練)

• 維持規律運動(最能促進大腦新生細胞)

• 多變生活場景、不要日復一日完全相同

• 運用思維導圖整理腦海雜訊,強化邏輯與記憶


4. 成熟大腦其實比年輕大腦更強

年長大腦優勢:

判斷更準、格局更穩、連結更豐富、情緒更穩定、思考更全面。

年輕大腦勝在速度,成熟大腦勝在智慧與深度。


5. 大腦衰老是可以預防、甚至逆轉的

失智、健忘、腦力下滑,

多數不是宿命,而是長期生活方式累積的結果。

只要改變習慣,大腦隨時可以回春。


三、書評

《不老的大腦》是一本溫和卻極具顛覆力量的腦科學普及書。

它打破世人對「年齡等於衰退」的刻板恐懼,告訴讀者:

衰老不是時間的懲罰,而是懶惰的累積。


這本書沒有艱深術語、沒有沉重壓抑的內容,

以通俗、理性、正向的角度,解讀人一生的腦力變化。

我們常常以為歲月會削減心智,

但其實真正讓人逐漸遲鈍的,是安逸、停滯、不再探索的生活狀態。


本書最珍貴的價值在於:

它給人一種終身成長的信心——

不論幾歲,大腦永遠保有更新、升級、重生的能力。

人生最好的抗衰老,從來不是保養外表,

而是持續讓大腦保持清醒、思考與好奇。


這是一本適合所有年齡、療癒、正向、有智慧的好書,

非常適合旅途閱讀:輕鬆、啟發性強、看完心態更從容穩定。


四、閱讀總結


真正的不老,不是停留在年輕,而是大腦永遠保持活躍與光明。


《漂亮朋友》 | 莫泊桑


 《漂亮朋友》(Bel-Ami,又譯《俊友》)|莫泊桑|導讀與文學賞析

出版:1885|作者:居伊·德·莫泊桑(Guy de Maupassant)
莫泊桑以短篇聞名,而《漂亮朋友》是他思想最鋒利、最重要的長篇,屬法國現實主義經典,寫美好年代(Belle Époque)巴黎的權錢交易、媒體腐敗與人性野心

一、故事簡介

主角喬治·杜洛瓦(Georges Duroy),人稱「漂亮朋友」,出身低微、曾在阿爾及利亞當軍官,一貧如洗來到巴黎。他沒有真才實學,僅靠英俊外貌、甜言蜜語與察言觀色的本事,周旋於上流社會的女性之間。

透過友人介紹,他進入《法蘭西生活報》擔任記者。這份報紙並非追求真相,而是財閥、政客投機牟利、操縱輿論的工具。杜洛瓦一步步利用不同女人:幫他寫稿、鋪路的瑪德蓮、溫柔癡心的克羅蒂爾德、報館老闆瓦爾特的妻子,最後拐走老闆年輕的女兒,逼對方把女兒嫁給自己。

結局極具諷刺:杜洛瓦平步青雲,當上報紙總編輯,婚禮上他望向國會大廈,下一個目標就是參議員、內閣高官。壞人沒有受懲罰,反而一路勝利,這正是這本書最扎心的地方。

二、核心主題

1. 無底線的野心與「反成長小說」
一般成長小說寫主角歷經磨練、道德成熟;杜洛瓦剛好相反——他越成功,良知越稀薄。社會獎勵的不是才華、品格,而是懂得利用外表、情緒、人脈的投機者。

2. 媒體與輿論的腐敗
報紙是資本與政治的工具,新聞可以捏造、轉賣,用來配合金融炒作、殖民政策,真相隨時可以出賣。這一點放在今天,依然有很強的現代感。

3. 金錢、婚姻與情愛的商品化
愛情、婚姻不是情投意合,而是階級爬升的交易。上流社會的婚姻、情事,背後都算好利益。書中女性也處在矛盾位置:她們有智識、有資源,卻受時代束縛,容易成為男人攀爬的墊腳石。

4. 外表的迷惑性
「漂亮朋友」這個稱號本身就是諷刺:好看的皮囊底下,是空虛、自私、冷酷。社會容易被外表與魅力欺騙。

三、文學特色(賞析重點)

✅ 冷靜客觀的現實主義筆法:莫泊桑很少跳出來痛罵、抒情,他像旁觀者一樣記錄杜洛瓦的一連串算計,讓讀者自行感受社會的荒謬,這種「不動聲色的諷刺」力量更強。
✅ 對比強烈:華麗、閃耀的巴黎上流宴會,底下是骯髒的交易與背叛;表面溫柔的情話,實質是利用。
✅ 開放、不給安慰的結局:作者沒有安排惡有惡報的大快人心劇情,杜洛瓦繼續往更高權力走去,這是對當時社會最狠的批判:這個體制鼓勵這樣的人。

四、閱讀提醒(適合你參考)

這本書節奏流暢,故事性強,好讀;但底色犬儒、黑暗,主角全程沒有內心救贖,讀完會有一種冷冷的空虛感。

• 如果你喜歡看社會諷刺、媒體、權力主題,非常值得;


五、精簡書評

《漂亮朋友》是莫泊桑最尖銳的長篇諷刺小說。它描寫一無所有的杜洛瓦,憑藉外貌與圓滑,利用女性、操縱輿論,在巴黎政商與媒體圈一路向上。莫泊桑以冷靜的筆觸揭開美好年代華麗面紗下的腐敗:報紙淪為投機工具,婚姻與情愛成為階級爬升的籌碼。最震撼的是,書中沒有正義的懲罰,無恥者持續獲勝。這不只是一個壞男人的發跡史,更是對一個顛倒價值、以成功為唯一標準的社會的沉痛叩問。


Bel-Ami by Guy de Maupassant follows Georges Duroy, a handsome, unscrupulous ex-soldier who climbs Parisian high society by seducing influential women and manipulating the press. Maupassant paints a cynical portrait of the Belle Époque: newspapers serve financiers and politicians, love and marriage become tools for social advancement. The novel’s sharpest sting is that Duroy succeeds without moral redemption. It is a powerful, unsettling satire on ambition, media corruption and a society that rewards charm over integrity.

Eric Church


 Eric Church(北卡羅來納大學UNC 2026畢業禮演講)撮要重點

核心比喻:一把結他六條弦,對應人生六個支柱,六者協調,生命才會奏出好音樂

1. Low E弦:信念(Faith)|根基
最粗、承托所有和弦。信念是你最深層的價值觀,不用等到低谷才去守護,順境時同樣要維持;有穩定根基,遇上風浪才不會崩潰。

2. A弦:家人(Family)|溫暖
家人愛你,不只是愛你最好的一面,他們見過你最糟的樣子仍沒有離開。再忙也要主動聯繫、珍惜這份牽絆。

3. D弦:伴侶(Life partner)|同路
揀伴侶是除信念之外最重要的決定。好的伴侶會放大你生命其他部份;錯的人會令整個人生走音,要明智選擇、用心相愛。

4. G弦:抱負與韌力(Ambition & Resilience)|前進
敢於追求自己想要的目標,不要等別人批准;失敗是常態,跌倒之後重新調整、繼續演奏。抱負同韌力需要維持平衡,不要過度急躁或躺平。

5. B弦:社群(Community)|紮根
不要只活在社交媒體的虛擬形象裡。去認識身邊真實的人、記住他們的名字,在當地紮根、付出,建立真實的連結,而非網路上淺薄的互動。

6. High E弦:獨特性(Individuality)|主旋律
最細、最容易被外界壓力扭曲。社交平台充滿包裝好的「別人完美人生」,不要拿自己去比較,不要為迎合他人改變自己。世上只有你能發出屬於你的聲音、做出獨特貢獻。

總結金句

每一根弦都會有走音的時候,這很正常。
像音樂還是噪音,分別在於:你願不願停下來聆聽,誠實找出哪裡走音,謙卑地調整,而不是只把音量調大、假装沒事。
最後鼓勵畢業生:用好這六條弦,奏出屬於自己、值得被聽見的生命樂曲。

summary

Eric Church uses the six strings of a guitar as a metaphor for life: faith, family, partner, ambition and resilience, community, and individuality. All six parts must stay balanced. Every string will go out of tune sometimes. Instead of turning up the volume to hide flaws, we should pause, listen and adjust. He reminds graduates not to copy others online and to honour their unique voice.

✨ 精選朗讀金句(中英對照)

Tend to your faith. Not just when you’re broken, but when you’re whole.
用心守護你的信念,不要只在跌碎時才想起,順境安好之時同樣要照料。

The A string is not a holiday string; it’s an everyday string. Call your people.
家人這根弦,不是節日專用的弦,而是屬於日常的弦。多聯繫你親愛的人。

The right partner will either amplify every other string you’re playing, or slowly pull the whole instrument into an out-of-tune mess.
適合的伴侶,可以放大你生命所有其他弦的聲音;反之,會令整把樂器慢慢走音。

The world has more than enough people waiting for a permission slip that was never going to arrive.
世上已經有太多人,一直在等一張永遠不會送來的批准條。想追求,就勇敢向前。

Learn the actual names, not usernames, of the people around you.
去記住身邊人的真實名字,而不是社交平台上的帳號名稱。

There’s a sound only you can make, a voice that has never existed before you and will never exist again.
有一種聲音,只有你可以奏出;這聲音在你之前不曾存在,在你之後也不會再有。

(全篇核心金句)
The difference between a life that sounds like music and a life that sounds like noise is whether you stop and listen — whether you’re honest enough to hear which string has drifted out of tune and humble enough to make the adjustment instead of just turning up the volume and hoping nobody notices.

人生聽起來是樂曲,還是雜音,分別在於:你願不願停下聆聽,誠實聽出哪一根弦已經走音,並謙卑調整,而不是只把音量調大,假裝一切安好。

I encourage you to take your six strings, make it something worth hearing and play your song.

願你好好守護這六根生命之弦,奏出值得被聽見、屬於你自己的樂曲。

2026-11-08

《The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas》(穿條紋睡衣的男孩)

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008), directed by Mark Herman, is a haunting fable of the Holocaust told through the innocent eyes of Bruno, the eight‑year‑old son of a concentration camp commandant. The film contrasts childish friendship with systemic Nazi cruelty. Its powerful ending shows that institutional evil does not spare anyone. Though widely debated for historical inaccuracy, it remains a moving warning about prejudice, obedience and how ordinary people can become part of atrocity.


2008 年英國電影,導演 Mark Herman(馬克·赫曼),改編自 John Boyne(約翰·伯恩)2006 年同名小說


一、基礎資料


• 年份:2008


• 片長:94 分鐘


• 類型:劇情、歷史、反戰、悲劇寓言(並非真實事件,是虛構寓言故事)


• 主演:Asa Butterfield(飾 Bruno 布魯諾)、Jack Scanlon(飾 Shmuel 什穆埃爾)、David Thewlis、Vera Farmiga


• 背景:二戰納粹時期,波蘭奧斯維辛集中營附近


二、劇情簡介


八歲德國男孩布魯諾,爸爸是納粹集中營指揮官,一家從柏林搬去營區旁的大宅。布魯諾天真好奇,以為遠處圍欄裡的人都穿著「條紋睡衣」,不知道那是囚犯制服、那裡是滅絕營。


他偷偷沿鐵絲網探險,認識同歲、同一天生日的猶太男孩什穆埃爾,兩人隔著圍欄成為好友;布魯諾不時偷偷帶食物給他。後來什穆埃爾的爸爸失蹤,布魯諾決定鑽過圍欄、換上囚犯的條紋衣服,入營幫他尋找父親。


兩人被納粹士兵趕進隊伍,一同被送入毒氣室。布魯諾到最後都以為只是躲雨,他對什穆埃爾說:「你是我最好的朋友,永遠都是。」大宅這邊,父親發現布魯諾遺留在圍欄外的衣服,終於明白發生了什麼,崩潰站在圍欄前;母親與姊姊也在無知之中承受這場由他們所屬的邪惡體系帶來的災難。


三、核心主題與符號分析


1. 兒童的純真,對比體制化的邪惡


電影全程以布魯諾的孩童視角敘事,刻意避開直接的血腥畫面。孩子沒有種族仇恨,不懂納粹宣傳,他只看見另一個孤獨的同齡人。這份無知與善意,剛好戳破納粹那套「種族優劣論」的荒謬:在人性底層,兩個男孩完全平等。


2. 「條紋睡衣」:關鍵象徵


這套衣服不是睡衣,是納粹用來去人格化的囚犯編號制服。


• 對布魯諾:是「扮遊戲」的道具


• 對體制:是標籤,把人簡化成待消滅的數字

當布魯諾穿上它,納粹機器不會分辨他是指揮官的兒子——惡的系統一旦啟動,不會為任何人開例外,這是故事最核心的諷刺(詩意的報應,不是布魯諾活該,而是邪惡反噬建造它的人)。


3. 家庭作為邪惡的載體


這個德國家庭內部本身就是分裂的:


• 父親:服從納粹、執行屠殺,把暴行當成職責


• 母親:一開始被蒙蔽,得知焚化爐真相後崩潰、厭惡丈夫的工作


• 姊姊:被納粹宣傳品洗腦,變得狂熱

電影想說:種族主義與暴力,是慢慢滲入家庭、教育、日常話語之中,不是只有壞人才會參與惡行,很多人是在「不知情、順從」裡成為共犯。


4. 友誼跨越圍欄,但圍欄背後是無法逃開的結構暴力


鐵絲網既是物理隔離,也是種族、權力、死亡的邊界。兩個孩子的友情很美,但這份美好在當時的體制下沒有生存空間,這也是這部電影殘酷的地方:善意不足以對抗制度化的大屠殺。


四、電影與原著小說的主要差異


1. 原著布魯諾是 9 歲,電影改為 8 歲


2. 原著結局:父母長時間不知道布魯諾下場,很久之後父親才推測真相;電影把發現衣服、父親崩潰的場面直接拍出,衝擊感更強


3. 原著有副線暗示母親與年輕納粹軍官有曖昧關係;電影刪去這條線,母親形象更偏向痛苦、被欺騙的受害者


4. 小說多用布魯諾內心獨白;電影依賴鏡頭、表情、對話去呈現他的困惑


五、重要爭議(這是這部作品不能忽略的部分)

確認內容:本故事不是歷史真實故事,是寓言,很多歷史學者、大屠殺研究機構對它有批評,適合閱讀、討論,但不能當成二戰集中營的歷史教材

1. 史實上的不合理:奧斯維辛裡,無法勞動的猶太孩童抵達後會立刻被篩選送進毒氣室,不會有小孩長期待在營區、自由走到圍欄邊和外人聊天,這個設定不符合真實營區運作


2. 批評觀點一:把大屠殺「浪漫化」、以德國家庭的痛苦作為情感重心,弱化數百萬猶太受害者的經歷,焦點變成納粹家庭的悲劇


3. 支持觀點:它是給青少年入門思考「邪惡、順從、種族偏見」的寓言,不靠血腥畫面,用簡單故事打開討論,提醒人們平凡人如何一步步參與惡


六、適合觀眾 & 觀影提醒


• 適合:青少年、成人,想以溫和但沉重的角度思考納粹大屠殺、道德選擇、種族歧視


• 不適合:年幼小童;結局極度壓抑、帶有心理衝擊,沒有救贖式的安慰結尾


• 閱讀/觀影建議:看完之後要補充真實大屠殺歷史,區分「寓言故事」和「真實歷史」




Line Dance - Shanghai Sky


 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=VSdutQeZ3nU&pp=iggCQAE%3D

雲道 - 香山湖公園至海天公園行

 31683 steps






征途

 心雄何懼路途遙?

奮力爭先勇奪標。

恰似人生須拼搏,

艱難盡處錦旗飄!


Brave hearts fear not the distant way,

Strive hard to win the prize array.

Such is life: we fight and dare to try,

Where hardships end, our banners fly.


Coração valente não teme a longa estrada,

Luta com afinco para ganhar o galardão almejado.

Assim é a vida: é preciso lutar e arriscar,

Quando findam as dificuldades, a bandeira triunfal vai ondular. 

2026-11-07

泉州最夯的夜市及最𩆜氣的森林公園

 

自由行的好處,就是可隨加隨減,旅途最後的兩個點,是臨時加上去的:獅山市的金相夜市及靈秀鎭





拆解:「最夯」是網路用語,意思是人氣爆棚、超熱門;金相夜市會被稱為「最夯的夜市」,不是官方封號,是網友、遊客給的形容,主要有4個理由:


為什麼金相夜市很「夯」


1. 人氣底子厚,規模大

本來就是民間自發形成的夜市;2020年開始晚上封路變成步行夜市,全長約800米,連接旁邊石靈路美食街,攤位數多,分為小吃、大排檔、百貨服飾三大區,吃喝買一條龍,周末人潮滿滿,日均客流很高。


2. 美食選擇極多,本地+全國小吃都有

既有石獅本土:面線糊、拳頭母、石花膏;也有各地網紅小吃:燒烤、螺螄粉、鐵板、炸物,價格平實、CP值高,是當地人的深夜食堂。

10元10隻燒生蠔

10元3串新疆羊肉串

4元福建咸飯

2.5元兩個柑


3. 登上央視,知名度打開

央視《消費主張》「中國夜市全攻略」專門報導金相夜市,讓它不只本地人逛,也吸引外地遊客前來打卡。


4. 後續持續升級,打卡氛圍足

後來增設夜景燈光、宇航員、月亮打卡裝置,還會辦舞獅、博餅等活動,不只是攤販集合,也有觀光打卡屬性,網路分享多,因此被網友叫做「最夯夜市」。

補充:「夯」=hot,這是台灣網路用語,大陸新聞一般寫「人氣爆棚、爆火」,但網友寫遊記會借用「最夯」來形容這裡。

簡單講:攤位多、吃的豐富、人潮旺、上過央視,網友就給它「最夯夜市」的稱號。




2026 Vacation - Trip 1

 





















《The Shadow of the Wind》(《風之影》


Book Review: The Shadow of the Wind

Author: Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Translator: Lucia Graves

First published: 2001 (Spanish original La Sombra del Viento)


Set in post‑Civil War Barcelona under Franco’s dictatorship, The Shadow of the Wind opens when a boy named Daniel Sempere visits the Cemetery of Forgotten Books. He picks a mysterious novel written by Julián Carax, only to discover a shadowy figure is hunting down and burning every copy of Carax’s work. What begins as youthful curiosity soon unfolds into a layered Gothic mystery tangled with forbidden love, betrayal, guilt and the wounds of war.


Zafón turns old Barcelona into a living character: its winding alleys, crumbling mansions and dusty bookshops build a dreamlike, haunting atmosphere. This is not just a thriller. It is a love letter to books and reading. The central metaphor — that stories cannot be fully erased even when books are burned — speaks quietly against censorship and collective amnesia. The cast is memorable, especially Fermín, whose sharp wit balances the novel’s heavy sorrow.


The book has its flaws. The plot leans on dramatic coincidences, and its winding, multi‑threaded narrative moves slowly for readers who expect tight, fast‑paced detective fiction. It is romantic and legendary rather than strictly realistic historical fiction.


At its heart, the novel explores how secrets from the past haunt later generations, and how reading shapes our understanding of love, loss and human darkness. Richly atmospheric and beautifully translated, it is a modern literary favourite. Stephen King described it as “a gorgeous read”, and the praise fits perfectly.


Best for readers who enjoy Gothic storytelling, book‑themed tales, historical atmosphere and lyrical prose. It is less ideal for those looking for hard‑boiled, logical crime mystery.


 《The Shadow of the Wind》(《風之影》,西班牙原名 La Sombra del Viento)


作者:Carlos Ruiz Zafón(卡洛斯·魯依斯·薩豐)|2001年出版

屬於「遺忘書之墓(Cemetery of Forgotten Books)」四部曲,單本可獨立閱讀,英譯本譯者:Lucia Graves


故事簡述


故事由1945年、西班牙內戰結束後的巴塞隆拿展開。舊書商的兒子Daniel Sempere,跟父親走進隱藏在舊城裡、迷宮一樣的遺忘書之墓;入場者要揀一本書,許諾守護它一生。Daniel揀到一本名為《The Shadow of the Wind》的小說,作者是幾乎無人知曉的Julián Carax。

他後來驚訝發現:有一個神秘人正在四處搜尋、焚毀Carax所有著作,Daniel手上這本,極可能是世上最後一本。一場單純出於愛書的好奇,逐漸變成追尋謀殺、禁忌之愛、背叛與戰爭創傷的探險,Daniel的成長軌跡,也慢慢和早已消逝的Carax重疊交織。


優點


1. 氛圍塑造極強,巴塞隆拿本身就是角色

薩豐寫出一個籠罩在戰後陰影、潮濕迷離的哥德式巴塞隆拿:彎曲巷弄、荒廢大宅、舊書店、古老廣場。城市不只是背景,承載弗朗哥獨裁時代的壓抑、失語與未被處理的創傷,歷史傷痛藏在細節,不用直白講述卻無處不在。


2. 層層嵌套的迷宮敘事,向文學致敬

它是成長小說、哥德懸疑、歷史小說、書之謎,亦帶後設文學色彩:書中有書、故事裡藏故事,有狄更斯、雨果、波赫士、愛倫坡的影子。「遺忘書之墓」本身就是給讀書人的浪漫隱喻——書籍可以被燒毀,但故事與記憶難以徹底抹除,對抗審查與遺忘。


3. 情感厚重,人物立體

核心不只是解謎,而是被時代碾碎的愛情、嫉妒、愧疚、救贖。反派Fumero不是單純的惡人,他是獨裁政權的產物;配角如Fermín(Daniel的盟友)幽默又帶傷,是全書最受喜愛的角色之一,平衡沉重的氣氛。


4. 文筆華麗流暢,英譯本質素高

Lucia Graves的譯本保留薩豐那種夢幻、憂鬱又富畫面感的筆觸,閱讀上癮,也是近二十年最成功的西班牙文學暢銷書,銷量僅次於《堂吉訶德》。


可商榷的缺點(批評界常見意見)


1. 情節巧合偏多,部份轉折略為戲劇化、失真

為了維持哥德浪漫與懸疑張力,有些命運重疊、秘密曝光的安排太刻意,若以嚴格寫實小說標準來看,說服力會減弱。


2. 體量龐大,人物線眾多

篇幅長、時間線跳動,登場人物不少,適合願意沉進氛圍、不急著快速破案的讀者;偏好緊湊硬核推理的人可能覺得節奏偏慢。


3. 超自然元素很淡,但風格偏向傳奇,不是紀實歷史

它不是嚴格歷史書,西班牙內戰與獨裁是底色,而非研究題材;重點是歷史傷痛如何滲入普通人的秘密,不是完整歷史還原。


核心主題


• 書籍、閱讀與記憶,對抗審查、焚書與集體遺忘


• 愛情、嫉妒與悔恨的世代纏繞


• 獨裁年代裡普通人的恐懼、沉默與微小的抵抗


• 成長:少年透過別人的秘密,認識人性的黑暗與溫柔


適合與不適合的讀者


✅ 適合:愛書人、喜歡哥德氛圍、迷宮式敘事、巴塞隆拿/西班牙歷史、文學懸疑、浪漫悲劇、狄更斯式長篇群像小說

❌ 不太適合:追求純硬核偵探推理、討厭過度戲劇化巧合、只喜歡短節奏輕小說


總結


《The Shadow of the Wind》不是單純的暢銷懸疑書,是一封寫給書本、故事與被壓抑記憶的情書。它用一則迷離的哥德傳奇,把巴塞隆拿的巷弄、戰後的陰霾、人對故事的執念織在一起;縱然劇情帶有傳奇式的誇張,它那種「書有靈魂,能救也能毀人」的氣質,令它成為當代經典。Stephen King稱它「a gorgeous read」,這個評價很貼切。

2026.11




I heeded the wind’s whisper

and went where my heart longed to be.



Ouvi o sussurro do vento

e fui ao lugar que desejava visitar.



J’ai écouté la parole du vent

et suis allée là où je voulais aller.



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