It’s been said that new landscapes bring forth new thoughts. It does. So much so that I think the process paralyses me. The intriguing new landscape would instigate me to just stare at it and when you get captivated into a moment so beautiful, all thoughts leave your mind at that very moment and all you can manage is to marvel.
This may not be my first experience with Shanghai. But somehow it feels new. I sit here wondering while staring at the Pearl Tower and started the self-questioning.
While waiting at the airport’s arrival hall, instead of getting flustered by the typically inconsiderate behaviour of most locals, my eyes and mind went into frenzy – admiring the slew of fashion treats around me. So the behaviours may not have changed when I last came here but the sartorial choices sure have. Proportionate silhouettes, attention to interesting details and understated designer pieces – I must admit I was a little bowled over as I looked on.
Then the car took us past The Bund. Instead of focusing on the ever-gloomy weather of the city, I mused how breathtakingly beautiful the heritage buildings along the water are. An imaginary scene of flappers with shapely bobs and fine-looking dandies mingling in the early 20th century flashed across my mind and it made me smiled.
So the people and landscape have remained since my last presence two years ago so what changed? Then I realised the inner landscape of my mind and heart have. And I guess that may not be such a bad thing after all.
Hello Shanghai. Nice meeting you. Again.
