The theme for the first issue of The Discourse highlights how folklore and oral lessons from childhood transform into a distinct language for every individual. Selected letters, stories, and books explore how childhood lessons influence people as they leave home and enter into new environments with unfamiliar cultural traditions and identities. The theme explores how childhood allegories, which shape the development of morals, self, family, mental healing, and community, endure or evolve through times of change.
Issue 1
December 2024
Cultural Heroes:
Evolution of Childhood Allegories
Xiabu Embroidery: The Profound Beauty of Art
When I first began learning Xiabu (Summer Cloth) Embroidery, I was seven years old, working alongside my great-aunt on various needlework projects like embroidery, shoe uppers, and soles. Back then, it wasn't known as Xiabu Embroidery, as it was called Folk Linen Embroidery.
Red Bean Boba: Embracing New Experiences and Defying Age Limits
I had my first milk tea about five years ago on my granddaughter's recommendation. Back then, I found milk tea very mysterious with so many different flavors and toppings. The first one I tried was the original milk tea with pearls, and it felt quite interesting but also a bit too sweet. Every time I walk into a milk tea shop, I feel overwhelmed seeing so many types of drinks....
Owning My Journey: The Power of Being Different
I am Xu Yongye, a student in Grade 10 at Bi Dang Hua Yao School, Kunshan, and I am a part of the LGBTQ+ community. To be honest, perhaps because I’m situated in a relatively open-minded environment, I don’t necessarily think of my identity as greatly different from that of others. I believe everyone is unique in their own way, so we need to embrace our differences and celebrate our similarities......
