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13

Mar

Same Animal + Different Cultures = Surprise!

by Bruce Goldstone on March 13, 2014

Falling cat, illustrating animal sayings that vary in different cultures and languages. (Image © deshy / iStock)

“If this is Life #7, I sure hope I’m an English-speaking cat!”
© deshy / iStock

Animal Symbols and Sayings

All over the world, cats are known for their seemingly magical ability to escape dangers that would be fatal to other, less feline species.  But different cultures and languages vary in how they talk about kitty’s special talents.

English speakers describe their death-defying trickiness by saying cats have nine lives. Consider 9Lives cat food, and its spokescat Morris, who vouch for the statistic.  Read more...

 

Cultural Diversity/Cultural Symbols/Language & Culture/Worldwide Sites

08

Dec

Culture Smart: Wrap a Gift and Don’t Forget the Feather

by Sheron Long on December 8, 2013

Swan standing on planet Earth, representing a Chinese gift giving legend. Image © Denis Zaporozhtsev / Hemera.

China’s swan feather legend is a gift to the world.
© Denis Zaporozhtsev / Hemera

In Chinese tradition, the legend of the swan feather dates to the Tang Dynasty (618-906 CE) and is still relevant today, especially during this gift-giving season.

According to legend,  a local official in a far-away vassal state asked Mian Bogao to take two swans to the emperor as a gift. Such gift-giving was customary to show respect to the emperor, and swans (rarely found in China) were the most precious of gifts.

Swan feather, symbolizing gift giving with sincerity and respect in Chinese tradition. Image © Lendy 16 / iStock.

A single swan feather sends a significant message.
© Lendy 16 / iStock  Read more...

 

China/Cultural Heritage & Traditions/Cultural Symbols/Literary World

20

Oct

Culture Smart: How Much Power’s in a Flower?

by Sheron Long on October 20, 2013

Yellow rose, a cultural symbol whose meaning varies in different cultures

In the language of flowers, what does a yellow rose mean to you?

The Yellow Rose, Cultural Symbol of . . .

Friendship and joy. Jealousy and infidelity. New starts and love’s end. It all depends on when and where you live.  Read more...

 

Cultural Diversity/Cultural Symbols/Worldwide Sites

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