To further enhance the Chinese proficiency of international students in China and deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, the International Cultural Exchange School (ICES) has launched a series of specialized lectures from May to June. These lectures include "Appreciating Traditional Chinese Song Lyrics", "Exploring Chinese Food Culture Through the Literary Works of Liang Shiqiu and Wang Zengqi" and "László Hudec and His Architecture in Shanghai."
In her lecture "Appreciating Traditional Chinese Song Lyrics", Professor Lin introduced the characteristics of Chinese-style song lyrics and melodies. Citing songs like Huang Zhan's "A Laugh in the Vast Ocean," shedelved into the Chinese history and culture behind the lyrics. Choi Hye-yeong from South Korea said, "Although I don't understand Chinese poetry, I love listening to classical Chinese poems. They are beautifully worded and well-structured. Through Professor Lin's lecture, I discovered many modern songs that incorporate elements of poetry, each exuding a rich traditional Chinese flavor, both in lyrics and in singing style."
As the saying goes, 'People regard foods their prime want'. Professor Wang Liansheng's lecture on Chinese traditional food culture captivated the students. His lecture explored Chinese food culture through the works of Liang Shiqiu and Wang Zengqi, focusing on the relationship between food and regional characteristics, different cuisines, and dishes. Yao Chenyuan from South Africa commented, "I was deeply impressed by the richness of Chinese food culture. From the salty and umami flavors of Shandong cuisine to the spicy Sichuan dishes and the colorful yet not greasy Cantonese cuisine, each cuisine showcased its unique characteristics. Only a country as culturally rich and geographically vast as China could produce such a marvel."
Architecture is living history. Professor Lin Lin, in her lecture on László Hudec and his architectural works in Shanghai, explored the life of the people in Shanghai a century ago and introduced the city's unique Haipai culture and cosmopolitan spirit of inclusiveness. Yin Guofa from Myanmar remarked, "By observing Hudec's buildings, I deeply felt his unique perspective on design and his profound understanding of urban environments. His works have become iconic landmarks, reflecting Shanghai's status as an international metropolis. Hudec successfully integrated traditional cultural elements with modern design, showing respect for history and a vision for the future. Through his architectural works, we can feel the prosperity and innovation of Shanghai as an international city, and at the same time experience the beauty and inspiration that the art of architecture brings to people."
As part of the ICES's initiative to lead international students in telling the story of China, these lectures on Chinese language and traditional culture aim to improve their Chinese language skills and offer a comprehensive understanding of Chinese culture, thereby facilitating cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world.
From | SUFE-ICES
