Shanghai Survival: Pop That Bubble or Perish!
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Once, I took a Ukrainian friend to Changle Road. She sharply observed that the young people there live in tiny rooms, wear fashionable clothes, and pretend to be happy every day.
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Haha, someone in this thread really got triggered!
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Last time I went to Shanghai alone, I stayed at a friend's rental for a week. During the day, I'd wander around by myself, and in the evenings, we'd have dinner. The clubs I went to were basically social hubs for white men and women, mostly for one-night stands rather than enjoying the music (speaking from experience). Shanghai gives outsiders a distinct sense of alienation. Maybe it's the interpersonal distance typical of big cities, or perhaps the urban layout, but I really didn't feel much human warmth. Also, you get the sense that everyone has this 'relaxed tension' about them. They're all wearing masks, trying to showcase their social value, unsure of what they're living for or who they truly are.
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Actually, most Shanghai locals I know don't really go to clubs or anything like that. Maybe it's just my circle, but for me, there's no real reason to go. If you strip away the glamorous illusion of the metropolis, the living experience isn't as good as Hangzhou.
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I lived in Shanghai for ten years, and I've always found it to be a very pragmatic and fair place. Young people in Shanghai have more opportunities to broaden their horizons, see more of life's possibilities, and connect with more accomplished circles. Of course, many people also get lost here, constantly hanging out with the wealthy, seeing their lifestyle, and then deluding themselves into thinking they're rich too. But that's not Shanghai's fault; it's self-deception, the tragedy of such individuals, and their dreams will eventually shatter. The saying 'Only where there are plane trees is it truly Shanghai' is more of a sentimental feeling—the dappled shadows of plane trees on lane houses in spring, lively streets on summer nights, coffee houses under the warm autumn sun, and enjoying mulled wine with a few friends in winter. Shanghai has a romance that other cities lack. It taught me the art of living, and I think I truly love this city.
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️!!! The illusion has been shattered. -
I feel like the Shanghai fantasy in most people's eyes is propped up by two groups: the very rich and happy, and those who aren't as rich or happy but aspire to be like the former. My friends and I are all locals, some living downtown and some in the suburbs, and none of us have ever been strongly interested in trends like clubs, fashionistas, or 'citywalks.' Call it being laid-back or call it wasting time, but what we actually pursue is a stable, peaceful life, much like most young people in the Jiangsu-Zhejiang-Shanghai region. So, when I see many descriptions of Shanghai, I actually feel a bit bewildered...?
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You're being very objective, and I agree that Shanghai locals are generally great. However, I was actually just describing the perspective of a 'non-local kid.' Please don't misunderstand me.
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The only ones who seem truly relaxed are the elderly folks pulling their little carts to burn incense or stroll in the park.
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It's so true. Beijing is uncomfortably sophisticated, while Shanghai is uncomfortably unrefined.
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Oh my, I've noticed people really like mixing Chinese and English. That's fine, I guess!
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This article used a total of four English words; things like 'popup' should be understood by everyone.
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But for us in the LGBTQ+ community, Shanghai's greatest charm is probably its inclusiveness.
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Of course, you're right.
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Aside from renting, my line of work brings me into contact with many wealthy people (not for schmoozing or social obligations). And many of them are genuinely low-key. Maybe only their bag is truly expensive, but from head to toe, their outfits are very ordinary, with common colors—the kind you wouldn't give a second glance to in a crowd. But when it comes to spending, they are truly wealthy and make considered purchases.
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Everyone has their own preferences. It's not necessarily true that someone dressed extravagantly isn't wealthy, but you're right, many rich people are very low-key.
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Through your words, I can feel that anxiety and restlessness, even through the screen.
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I'm also feeling very anxious right now.