Talk of the town：Year of the Snake
【明報專訊】In the Chinese zodiac, the snake is the sixth animal sign, following the Dragon and preceding the Horse. In Chinese culture, those born in the year of the snake are known to be calculating, clever, and curious. In celebration of the Chinese New Year, the Post Office has issued special stamps featuring various depictions of the snake.
Snake in different cultural contexts
Snakes are uncommon sights in urban cities today, and many people fear them due to their poisonous and deadly venom. However, the snake has also served as a source of inspiration in various popular cultures in both the East and the West, giving rise to diverse interpretations of the snake. For instance, in the famous Chinese folktale, the Legend of the White Snake(白蛇傳), a love story unfolds between a white snake spirit and a young man. In the renowned novel series Harry Potter, the snake symbolizes the House of Slytherin, embodying traits of cunning, intelligence, and ambition.
Activities during the Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year is a time of great festivity and tradition that celebrates the start of the new year in the lunar calendar.
Preparations for the Chinese New Year begin weeks in advance. Homes are cleaned to sweep away any traces of bad luck from the previous year, which is known as ''spring cleaning'' (大掃除). Decorations are put up to welcome good fortune. Red lanterns, couplets, and paper cuttings adorn the streets and homes, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. A significant custom is the reunion dinner on New Year's Eve, where families come together to enjoy a meal that typically includes dishes symbolizing auspicious wishes. During Chinese New Year, people usually visit their family and friends with their parents. Red packets, known as ''lai-see'' in Cantonese, are given out, especially to kids, to bring luck and blessings for the coming year.
The Year of the Snake is approaching. May the new year bring blessings and success to you. May you be as nimble and intelligent as snakes, and may you all be full of the joys of spring!
■Grammar booster
Be full of the joys of spring
To be very happy
E.g. He bounced into the classroom, full of the joys of spring.
■Game
When was the last Year of the Snake?
(Answer on next text)
■Gear up
Fill in the blanks with the glossary below.
1. He drew much __________ from music originating from Latin America for his new song.
2. The couple chose an ____________ date for their wedding, hoping that it would bring them luck and happiness in their marriage.
(Answers on next text)
■Glossary
inspiration (n) 靈感
folktale (n) 民間傳說
custom (n) 習俗
auspicious (adj) 吉利的
(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view to rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)
[Smarties' Power English 第429期]
Grammar：Yet, still and already
【明報專訊】Pat: Have we bought the decorations for MoMo's surprise party ye... 詳情
