Deep Dive
Why does the speaker primarily use English in their videos?
The speaker uses English in their videos because it has a broader reach and is understood by more people compared to other languages like Chinese or Hokkien. They believe language is about accessibility and connecting with a wider audience.
How does speaking different languages affect the speaker's personality?
Speaking different languages subtly changes the speaker's personality. They feel these changes particularly when switching between Chinese and English, which they describe as completely opposite languages.
What challenges did the speaker face when trying to integrate into local communities in China?
The speaker found it difficult to integrate into local communities in China due to their accent and language barriers. They mention how their sudden Chinese accent made it hard to blend in, even though they were speaking the same language.
How did learning French change the speaker's perspective on French culture?
Learning French allowed the speaker to engage with French YouTubers and have genuine conversations with French people. This experience gave them a deeper understanding of French culture and its great philosophers, changing their initial negative perception of Paris.
What did the speaker learn about cultural similarities through language?
The speaker discovered that cultural practices like arranged marriages, which they thought were uniquely Chinese, also exist in France. This realization came through conversations with French friends, highlighting how learning a language can reveal surprising cultural similarities.
Why does the speaker believe learning multiple languages is important?
The speaker believes learning multiple languages opens up access to diverse cultures, people, and lifestyles. It makes the world feel larger and more fascinating, while also helping individuals realize their own smallness in the grand scheme of things.
What misconception did the speaker have about Paris before visiting?
The speaker initially believed Paris was the most romantic city in the world, influenced by media portrayals. However, their first visit was a disappointing experience, with rude Parisians and a fear of being robbed, which completely changed their perception.
How did the speaker's Colombian friend's refusal to learn Chinese affect their understanding of Chinese culture?
The speaker's Colombian friend, who lived in Shanghai for years without learning Chinese, confidently shared his understanding of Chinese culture. The speaker realized this highlighted the limitations of relying solely on English and the deep cultural insights that only learning the local language can provide.
- 使用英语可以接触更广大的受众
- 作者会说中文和闽南语
Shownotes Transcript