A magazine for language learners and culture vultures
JOURNAL D’UNE ÉTUDIANTE ANGLAISE EN FRANCE
岁月神
“Echoes of the Rainbow”
KAFKA: eine Analyse
SYRIA’S ONGOING, ESCALATING INTERNAL VIOLENCE
We interview a French Connection sales coordinator and an EU Advisor!
CARNAVAL PORTUGUÊS: A CULTURA E TRADIÇÃO
We just love the impact of the azure skyline against the majestic grandeur of the cathedral.
Taken by Sophie Spirit in Valencia, Spain
For your eyes only—the second issue of The Linguist has arrived!
We hope you enjoyed dipping into our last issue, but now we have expanded to give you even more international goodies! This time look out for “Five Budget Weekend Breaks” and a round-up of world fashion weeks.
At The Linguist our team are committed to keeping you up to date with WORLD AFFAIRS, SPORT and STYLE, letting you in on year abroad tips, sharing with you some foreign recipes and tickling your fancy with reviews of book and film. All we ask of you is an enthusiasm for all things foreign. We are always keen to recruit new writers so don't hesitate to drop us a line if you have an idea!
Becoming a published author is within your grasp! We are looking for new talent.
In just 3 months we have published 5 books
– now in top 3% Amazon best sellers!
www.mardibooks.com
...win a publishing contract...
mardi-readme-writeme.blogspot.com
...hosting guest writers each month - February is Romantic Fiction
As the Environment Secretary meets with farmers, water companies and wildlife groups to discuss the possibility of drought across the UK, Britain is left anticipating summer water shortages severe enough to warrant hosepipe bans. Although there may seem to be no shortage of soggy ground at the moment, this is largely due to melting snow and in fact, Britain is coming to the end of the second of two extremely dry winters in a row.
Coincidence, some might shout – but if these developments are considered alongside other signs of global warming, they become hard to ignore. Researchers in Wales have recently estimated that up to three quarters of the Severn Estuary’s mudflats could disappear within the next 100 years due to rising sea levels. This may sound alarming, but Britain is certainly not in the worst position regarding disappearing land; some small island nations are under threat of being completely submerged if sea levels continue to rise at their current pace.
In 2009, President Mohamed Nasheed of the Maldives, in the Indian Ocean, drew international attention to the plight of his country by holding a meeting of his government underwater, using scuba diving equipment and waterproof documents. Although little more than a gimmick, the meeting had a very serious message – despite being only one-fifth of the size of Greater London, the Maldives has a 300,000-strong population, and if the islands sink, where should they go?
In more recent times, it seems that these warnings have not been heeded – and a group of island nations are taking a more hard-line approach. President Johnson Toribiong of Palau, a tiny Pacific island, announced recently that an expert advisory panel has been convened to bring the matter before the International Court of Justice in The Hague. They will argue that if nations with a high carbon output will not reduce their emissions willingly, they should be forced to, on the grounds that they are violating the islanders’ right to statehood; an accusation that it seems difficult to deny, given that the activities of the developed world are causing these countries to physically disappear.
Does a hosepipe ban still seem so serious? It seems that for us in Britain, it is time to consider the people for whom climate change represents a daily worry about survival.
Siobhan O’Sullivan Editor
2012 is the 30th anniversary of the Falklands War, though difficulties between the UK and Argentina have surfaced in its wake. The recent situation was sparked by the decision of Mercosur, a South American trading bloc including Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, that they will no longer allow ships flying the Falkland Islands flag to enter their ports. The announcement in late December 2011 is in support of Argentina’s sovereignty over the islands, which they call Las Malvinas. Argentina accused the UK of breaking international laws in 2010 by allowing oil exploration, which is but another of the disputes brought about by the conflict of sovereignty. The Foreign Office stated that there was no justification for the motion of Mercosur that prohibits 25 boats, which fly the flag of the Falklands, from entering the bloc’s ports.
Both parties perceive each other to be performing manoeuvres against each other; from the Duke of Cambridge’s arrival in the islands to Argentina renaming its top football league after the General Belgrano warship sunk during the Falkands war. The escalation has led to Argentina’s foreign minister Hector Timerman lodging a formal complaint to the UN in New York, in response to what Argentina considers the consequent militarisation of the islands. Timerman reported that the military presence in the Falklands is to increase “four fold” including the deployment of HMS Dauntless, the Royal Navy most powerful warship, and claims of the Admiralty sending Trident nuclear missiles to the South Atlantic. The Ministry of Defence maintain that the military presence is only routine and that the submarines in the region are not capable of carrying such warheads.
Secretary General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, has said that the two nations must stop escalating the conflict over the islands that are roughly 300 miles from the Argentinian coast and 8,000 miles from Britain. Prime Minister David Cameron announced that the Falklands will remain in British hands “as long as they want” and that their right to self-determination will be upheld. Indeed polls continue to show an overwhelming majority in favour of British reign. The Argentinian President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner has riled the support of other neighbouring countries saying that it is not just an Argentinian cause, but that it has become one of Latin America.
On February 10, as President Assad’s army continued attack on the besieged city of Homs, two large blasts were set off in Aleppo, Syria’s largest city, in which the most populous governorate resides. It is still unclear who is to blame for the attack as both soldiers and civilians were caught up in the bombings. However, it is believed to be the worst violence in the country since the 2011 uprising against President Bashar al-Assad’s government, and the worst violence in Aleppo in over a decade.
This increased threat to the lives of civilians has been drawn nearer the eyes of the UN. After the February 4 th veto by Russia and China of the UN’s resolution to aid Syria, rejecting the resolution as “unbalanced,” western countries have made clear that they believe said veto only encourages the Syrian government to continue with its violent regime. The resolution was supported by all 13 other members of the Security Council and was described as a “Syrian-led political transition to a democratic, plural political system.” The choice to veto the resolution, made by Russia and China, has put their politics under close scrutiny. Russia argued that to pass the resolution was to choose sides in a civil war. However, it is known that Moscow holds Syria as its greatest ally in the Middle East, housing one of its naval bases as well as being a customer in the Russian arms dealings. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said “unfortunately, yesterday in the UN, the Cold War logic continues… Russia and China did not vote based on the existing realities but more a reflexive attitude against the West.” In its defence, Syria says that it is being targeted by its neighbours and by the West, stating that its “hostile neighbours are providing diplomatic cover for an armed insurgency steered from abroad.” Syrian UN envoy, Bashar Ja’afari, denies that Syrian forces have killed any civilians, saying that “no sensible person” would launch such attacks during a period in which the Security Council was set to discuss his country. UN discussions will continue in order to pass a resolution on Syria to avoid any further turmoil within the country.
The icy grip of Arctic winds and record snowfall has a tight hold on Europe, as the mercury plunges to -30c in the east of the continent. As Europeans have endured extreme sub-zero temperatures stretching from Moscow to Milan, it may seem that the current climate change consensus is flawed. Global warming skeptics need not smirk. Climatologists at the Journal of Geophysical Research suggest that the prolonged snowfalls only reinforce the concept of global warming. The extensive melting of Arctic sea ice has most likely interfered with the normal air pressure regimes, resulting in a persistent high pressure which consequently results in the cooling of Europe.
Ukraine is no stranger to harsh, central European winters. However the 12,000 homeless on the streets of the Ukrainian capital Kiev have fallen victim to the bitter cold. Combined with the nation’s high incidence of alcoholism, this winter is proving to be Herculean challenge to the city’s emergency services. However the three thousand hospitalisations in the past fortnight are attributed to a tipple too much. The capital’s hospitals struggle to deal with frostbite-ridden patients, resorting to treatments such as amputations.
Comparatively mild Southern Europe has also been blighted by this polar episode. Night-time temperatures have frequently measured -21c in Milan. As flights are grounded and trains cancelled owing to increasingly treacherous conditions, the Italian government, along with European neighbours, has faced another challenge; gas shortages. Approximately forty percent of European supply is provided by the Russian gas monopoly Gazprom, which has stated that its supplies cannot satisfy the massive increase in demand for energy. Italian industry faces a restriction upon energy usage in order to safeguard limited supply, as the country’s infrastructure edges towards the brink.
Whilst snowfall and freezing temperatures have eased temporarily, meteorologists fear that the persistent Arctic high pressure region looks set to stay for the next fortnight. As governments grapple with an overloaded energy infrastructure, echoes of the 2009 Ukrainian-Gazprom gas dispute linger. As supply shortages parallel those inflicted by Gazprom’s defiant pipeline shutdown of the 2009 dispute, the Arctic conditions may provide a backdrop to renewed disputes, as the state-owned gas giant sells its European customers short.
The catwalk collections for Spring/Summer 2012 saw many established international designers sending an army of intricate designs down the runway – Miuccia Prada, John Galliano and Karl Lagerfeld showed some typically beautiful collections in lace, leather and more. However, Fashion Week also saw a host of undiscovered talent sending equally stunning looks down the runway. Sure you know Lanvin and Dolce & Gabbana, but what about Alexandre Vauthier, Fam Irvoll and Junya Watanabe? Behold the five best designers you’ve never heard of!
QuirkyNorwegian designer Fam Irvoll was on hand to provide an antidote to the traditional patterns and muted colour palettes, which seemed to be the staple of most designers, showing a collection full of cartoon prints and exaggerated silhouettes. Sending models down the runway with multicoloured hair and brightly coloured creepers, the Norwegian’s collection was a breathe of fresh air. Pompoms on trousers and stuffed pigheads sewn onto pink ballerina dresses grabbed the crowd’s attention, making Fam one of the most unusual and crowd-pleasing shows of the week.
ALEXANDRE VAUTHIER
Amy Wakeham Editor
Alexandre Vauthier is the French couturier whose designs are already making a splash in the celebrity world – Beyoncé herself chose to wear one of Vauthier’s unique creations in the photoshoot for her new album. One look at Vauthier’s Spring/ Summer ’12 collection shows us why: the French designer showed a collection with a metallic and pastel-based colour palette, taking traditional evening dresses and adding pastel purple fur stoles and cut-out details to create a look which
JUNYA WATANBE
Europe wasn’t the only continent showcasing its talent – Junya Watanabe (protégé of Rei Kawakubo, infamous founder of Comme Des Garçons) put on an amazing spectacle, sending models parading down the runway with elaborate headwear made entirely of peacock feathers and clunky monochrome brogues. Junya’s patchworking of paisley prints and traditional Japanese prints brought Eastern style firmly into the 21stCentury.
Another European designer making waves at London Fashion Week was Krystof Strozyna, a Russian-born designer with a keen eye for detail has already has seen his clothes featured in Vogue magazine. Krystof’s Spring/Summer ‘12 collection contrasted sharp masculine tailoring with a candy colour palette and ultra-feminine silk miniskirts to provide a relaxed, colourful alternative to traditional office clothing.
Finally, proving that Japanese designers can do couture, Yiqing Yin debuted as guest designer at Paris Fashion Week, showing a collection which will no doubt make a lasting impression on fashion editors. Her use of exaggerated silhouettes in a monochrome palette created a beautiful, yet classic collection. Using fur, leather and velvet, Yiqing managed to create an ethereal, almost spaceage aesthetic which was both figure-flattering and extremely edgy, whilst remaining classic enough to appeal to most audiences.
Verona first springs to mind as the city of Romeo and Juliet, attracting thousands of tourists every year to the assumed site of this famous love story. Juliet’s balcony stands in the very centre of Verona, and is always the centre for the tourist mob. However balcony aside (it was actually constructed in the 1990s), Verona is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy in which to spend Valentine’s Day.
Start the day in the Caffetteria Borsari, right in the centre of town. This tiny Cafe is like an Aladdin’s Cave, packed full from floor to ceiling with china tea cups giving it a wonderful atmosphere. Arrive early to get one of the only 3 tables, and browse the extensive menu of coffees and teas- there have never been so many ways to serve a coffee! Next head to Piazza delle Erbe- the centre of the city. Spend the rest of the morning in the Valentine’s Day market which takes place in the adjoining square, Piazza dei Signori. Here many local Venetian specialities are on display, such as the famous wine from Bardolino. Catch some of the music on the stage in the Piazza before heading out of the centre and towards the Duomo for lunch.
Cappa Cafe is the perfect place to head, serving soup or sandwiches at reasonable prices. Being located right next to the Adige River, means that the view from the terrace (if you can brave the cold winter weather in February) up toward Castel San Pietro is beautiful.
Spend the afternoon wandering round the backstreets by the Duomo (my own favourite area of the city) and then head up the steps by Castel San Pietro to the top of the hill and look over Verona for the sunset. If you’re lucky you may even glimpse some of the snowy mountains that form the backdrop to the city!
An evening spritz at Osteria del Bugiardo is essential, the massive wine glasses are good value for money and there is always the option for some aperitivo snacks too. Pizzeria Redentore, built inside an old church, again looking over the Adige River, is a great place to eat out in the evening. The 10% student discount on the food bill and the extensive choice on the menu make it the ideal preference for pizza lovers!
Conclude the evening in a lively local bar like Osteria ai Preti or Malacarne surrounded by local Italians and away from the hordes of tourists in the centre of the city.
TheperfectendtoValentine’sDayinthecityofstar-cross’dlovers.
By Chloe Saunders
Since 1943 the International Fashion Weeks have been the place where designers can flaunt their creations and set new trends for us to follow all year round. I’ll give you an insight into the Milan and Paris winter-autumn shows of 2012 which generated a lot of experimental and innovative designs, and I think were more noteworthy than their AngloSaxon counterparts!
Milan Fashion week shrugged off the controversy caused by naked “fascist-fashion” protests with outlandish but meticulous designs. Thanks to Moschino, Milan had an edge of boisterousness. A merge of 1980s cowboy with French Georgiana showed a lot of the house’s tongue in cheek humour, as did garish patterns and electric blue which were nice deviances from block colour of black and white. Italy’s most successful designer Giorgio Armani presented us with multi-coloured dotted jackets and sweet shop ‘pic n mix’ styled beaded coats. A visual feast for the eyes.
“Immodest, grandiose, wonderful”: Helen Mirren’s conclusion epitomised Dolce and Gabbana’s 2012 display. Their beautiful baroque inspired corsets and sheer dresses were dripping in ornate detail and teamed with daintily laced boots and embroidered stockings. One word: exquisite. But saving the best till last was Roberto Cavalli, whose collection oozed understated sexiness. His frill tiered maxi dresses and long black leather gloves emulated Bond girl seduction and his sequinned embellished dresses were as visually stunning as Naomi Campbell, who closed the show. We can certainly say that Milan Fashion Week autumn-winter 2012 was anything but dull; whilst maintaining elegance and immaculate attention to detail, the designers’ quirky designs and loud accessories demonstrated the wicked Italian sense of humour and also that fashion doesn’t have to be taken seriously.
At the time of writing, only the See by Chloe collection had been unveiled at Paris Fashion Week 2012. However, this was probably one of the most anticipated displays as it was the first Fashion Week digital show. This means no celebrity front row, no photographers and no press! So what did they give us? It was a battle of black and white. Models boasted crisp white trouser/jacket combos that radiated Parisian sophistication. But the collection turned audacious with black plunging neckline dresses as well as VERY short miniskirts that proved that French style still retains its cheekiness. Geometric patterns of triangles and squares pervaded cardigans and tops and gave a whole new meaning to “granny chic”. A fabulous start to Paris Fashion Week, but what can we expect from the following few days? It will be interesting to see Yves Saint Laurent and the last collection given by their chief designer Stefano Pilati, who has decided to leave after stepping into Tom Ford’s shoes in 2007. Christian Dior will be under a lot of pressure to do well after their disappointing Spring/Summer 2012 collection which lacked the fantastical and innovative designs of John Galliano. However will Raf Simons, newly replaced at Jil Sander, win the comeback of the decade and revive Dior?
STYLE:
By Amy Wakeham and Elaine GoodfellowIf street style in Barcelona could be summed up in two words, it would be this: sun kissed. Yes, the sun has everything to do with Barcelona’s sense of style. Trends that would otherwise be layered and curated to the tiniest detail in chillier climates are cut back to their very element in this city. Fabrics are light, the colours rich and faded from exposure to the sun. A midi skirt here, a lace dress there; the Barcelonans keep up to date, certainly, but without forgetting the relaxed, bohemian feel that permeates the Catalonian city. Fashion is put into perspective in Barcelona: your style revolves around your sun kissed life, and not the other way around.
SHOP:
Interested in a more unique and personalised shopping experience? La Rambla, central Barcelona, is a popular street for both tourists visiting the area and locals alike. It is also considered a series of shorter streets, hence its Catalan name ‘Les Rambles’. In high season, the street is mainly dominated by tourists, which in turn has influenced the shopping selection and general feel of the street. For more individuality and culture, my advice would be not to visit La Rambla in the height of summer; wind your way through the many side streets for a better look and a more individual find. Be sure to delve around every corner; as the rent is much lower off the main Rambla, you may find yourself submerged in wonderful boutiques, and treasure troves of antique and vintage stores.
Your year abroad will not be the ‘best year of your life’ until you’ve been interrailing. Not only is it the perfect opportunity to do so, but it’s also dirt cheap (we’re talking under £200 to get around 4 countries and at least 6 cities) in comparison to the good beating Deutsche Bahn would prefer your bank account got. Let’s face it, you’re going to need a change of scenery at some point – and it would, of course, be sacrilege to even think about using your Erasmus grant to go home during reading week. Therefore… interrail!
I went to Zurich (the only Wagamamas in Switzerland), Vienna (home of the Sacher Torte, massive Schnitzels and Kaffeehaüser – yum), Cologne (a Chocolate Museum, a German gay club and German Zumba), Bonn (Haribo shop. Enough said), Mainz (home to truly mad Spanish Erasmus students) and Frankfurt (we got lost) before heading back to my beloved Strasbourg. All in just one week!
USEFUL WEBSITES:
www.interrailnet.com (buy your interrail ticket here)
If you’ve not got time for a full blown interrailing extravaganza, that’s no reason not to go train mad. Get on a local train somewhere – we popped over to Colmar, a petite gem in the heart of Alsace, for a day once – or plan a cheeky trip to somewhere random you’ve never been before. I went to Munich for Oktoberfest (80 euros return about 2 weeks in advance, not too shabby) and Berlin for New Year; although pay in full and skip the Quer-Durch-Lands ticket (only 42 euros in comparison with 130, but it took 8 regional trains across Germany and 16 and a half hours. Not something I would recommend).
I am aware I sound like I should be studying German, not French and Russian. But I genuinely believe your year abroad is just as much about getting a taste for what the world’s got to offer you. So make the most and get on a train: j’espère qu’on se verra à la gare!
Moving away from the Dordogne and the Aix-en-Provence, there are many parts of the south of France which remain consistently undisturbed by British tourists. The equally beautiful area around the Lot, the Cantal and the Aveyron sits only slightly east of the Dordogne yet for some reason is neglected by the same people who flock year on year to that cosseted region. The area has recently had a high-profile in the British press, due to a foiled terrorist plot, a ‘walking dead man’ and a more respectable travel article in the Independent, yet the levels of tourism remain relatively unchanged amongst the British population.
www.seat61.com (pure genius; also see the book, The Man in Seat 61)
www.bahn.de (German national train company’s website – find out the times for any train journey in Europe, not just within Germany – because ‘Germans are safe and efficient’)
www.sncf.fr (French national train company’s website – comes complete with ‘SNCF la radio’)
www.raileurope.co.uk (book European train tickets from the UK)
The area is well-served by transport; it is possible to fly daily London Stansted – Rodez (approx. 40 minutes away) and there are a variety of international flights to the airports of Toulouse and Limoges both around 2 hours away. There is also an extensive train network and the area is relatively close to the A20 motorway. Visit the medieval town of Figeac on a Saturday Morning to experience one of France’s best markets. Start with breakfast in ‘Le Champollion’ café and brush arms with businessmen, backpackers and les couples sophistiquées! Later, visit the museum by the same name to learn a little about ‘Jean-Francois Champollion’, the man who deciphered Egyptian Hieroglyphics and who was born in the city. For those seeking a more action-packed holiday, the area does not disappoint. The Massif-Central region- the largest volcanic area in Europewhich is just over an hour away, boasts over 10 ski resorts. ‘Le Lioran’ the closest and one of the most popular is frequented by locals and with 60km of runs provides a much cheaper alternative to similar resorts in the Alps. In the summer the resort is also used for down-hill biking and walking and has a large ice-skating rink and high-ropes course.
A lot of people ask me why I chose Strasbourg. Honestly, I don’t know, other than I wanted to see a different side of France than the tourist hotspots of Paris. Strasbourg appealed largely because it’s the European capital, so ideally located (oh Germany) and from Google images, it’s a stunner.
L’UNIVERSITÉ
By Chloe Osborne
Whilst studying or teaching in the 3rd Erasmus year in the big cities and capitals of the continent can seem a dream come true, the pressure of being a foreigner in a big strange metropolis may seem at times overwhelming and stressful. These 5 easy options for out of town fun will let you escape for a weekend to revitalise. Budget options of course…
From Lisbon: Estoril- the sea, the sun, the sand, the swagger of posh totty rolling past does not mean that this beautiful seaside town isn’t without its cheaper hostels and hotels, and plenty of affordable eateries. Only 15km from Lisbon and an easy bus journey away, this will truly provide a break from the mania of inner-city life.
From Granada: Salobreña- looks to be an attractive weekend retreat from Granada, with an old historical quarter characterised by its long narrow streets and white washed houses, and 10th c. Moorish castle overlooking its wide expanse of sunny beaches. TOP TIP: The ALSA buses are cheap and take around an hour from the city.
From Paris: Chartres- Famed for its beautiful Cathedral, this French ville just over an hour’s journey out of Paris from the Gare Montparnasse may provide a welcome respite from the busy capital. The beautiful surrounding countryside and historical old town are accompanied by cheap and chic bistros and cycling and walking tours are offered in the centre. TOP TIP: Although it’s risky, enquiring when you arrive about accommodation at the local tourist office may prove the cheapest option for budget hotels and availability. (See picture to left)
From Rome: Lido di Ostia- This panoramic beach complex is connected to Rome by the RomaOstia train line which takes 37 minutes from the city centre. Stay around the ingressolibrero for free beach access, carry on down to Lido centro or visit the Lido antica for a bit more Roman ruins (if you’re not sick of them by now…). Cheap hostels and even campsites can be found back from the sea front.
From Berlin: Beelitz- Around 35km from Berlin on the Beelitz-Stadt line, this immaculate village offers a remarkable array of historical monuments and local museums, scenic hiking trails in the stunning German countryside and several budget restaurants. Tripadvisor offers extremely cheap hotel deals for a peaceful timeout from municipal Berlin.
I hated it. I had little choice over what I studied, and had to do Hamlet – I hate studying literature – and my teacher had me read the ‘To be or not to be’ speech out to the entire class… delightful. Everything will be difficult, for example finding your classes was impossible! Lessons are like school, where students write down what the teacher says and then regurgitate it in the exam.
One of my aims for the year abroad in France was to eat some soupe à l’oignon; I managed it on my last night in touristy Paris. The French cuisine in Strasbourg is all about bigging up Alsace. La choucroute alsacienne and les tartes flambées are particular favourites. Then there’s La Cloche à Fromage – a cheese adventure all around France and back.
When all Strasbourg’s trams suddenly became emblazoned with these words at the end of November, they weren’t joking. Strasbourg becomes a Christmas market for a whole five weeks – I have never felt so Christmassy. It really did become an excuse to have a cheeky glass of vin chaud (or even cidre chaud…à la cannelle!) in between exams.
L’ALLEMAGNE
Germany was 5 minutes away; I could cycle there in 20, which was so much fun if you fancied a taste of the other side, maybe some Milka Philadelphia or just cheap cosmetics! Also excellent (and cheap) for clubbing and there’s a free student bus!
A romantic comedy directed, produced and starring Til Schweiger, sees him as a press reporter, Ludo Decker whose daily work is to spy on celebrities. He often uses his job, charm and wit to get his way with the ladies! After a work-related incident, Ludo is sentenced to 300 hours community service at a children’s day care centre. There he is reunited with ex-classmate Anna Gotzlowski. Growing up, Ludo used to taunt the hopelessly devoted Anna and since then she has never forgotten. Out of revenge, she sets out to test his patience. As tensions dissolve, they become friends, although Anna wants more. Blind to her feelings, Ludo doesn’t understand why she is so upset when she finds him with another woman. After some distance and seeing Anna, as actor Jurgen Vögel’s date at an awards ceremony, Ludo realises that he loves Anna and does anything in his power to win her back. What’s great about this film is that although it’s a romantic comedy, with the protagonist being male, it feels more comedy then soppy romance when the two elements are balanced out. As the two main characters have history the banter between them is very wi tty. It is also worth noting that supporting roles and the soundtrack is well chosen and key to the developments in the film. But why should you see this film? In Germany, Schweiger’s films are sell-outs, so when you see one, you’ll want to see more of his entertaining, upbeat movies!
By Amanda Brown
Marc Levy is the Nicholas Sparks of France offering his readers with this book a story about Susan and Philip, two young people who meant everything to each other and promised to always love one another.
A story starting with a beautiful personification of a hurricane, portrays how Philip and Susan’s decisions in life can come between what seems to be the strongest of connections as they live their lives through heartfelt letters and their few touching encounter at Newark Airport. Philip had promised Susan that he would be there for her no matter what happens, but with that promise his life would change forever. The repercussions bring about changing emotions. It shows just how much both their lives have moved. However, I don’t want to give too much away as this has an ambivalent twist of an ending, but it certainly wasn’t what I expected.
My most favourite passage is early on as they say goodbye, when Philip takes Susan into his arms, and she holds onto him trying to take in his scent whilst leaving hers on him. This is great for those who love a good romance; how Philip is so eager to arrive at the airport early to not miss Susan and how they promise not to cry each time they part. It will leave you feeling the importance of making every moment in life count; however mundane or special.
In 2003 Muccino released Ricordati Di Me which explores the complex personal and professional interests of a seemingly normal Roman family. It is a movie about life, love, desires and responsibility, a movie about the limits that people go to in order to achieve their hopes and dreams, and a movie that examines the complex nature of relationships. Each member of the Ristuccia family appears to be preoccupied with their own personal dreams and ambitions. Carlo, bored of his monotonous life with his wife and job, rekindles the passion with an ex-lover (Monica Bellucci), while his wife desperately attempts to become an actress. Their daughter wishes to work on a television show, and will sacrifice anything to achieve this reality, while her brother Paolo feels lost and rejected and tries to find his true identity.
This is a fantastic film, which is thoroughly enjoyable to watch purely for entertainment value, but it also presents a number of topics which can equally be studied for a cinematic reading. For example, the film presents a new reality of the Italian family. Although in the first scene we are presented with the setting of an idyllic house in a pleasant neighbourhood which could suggest from the outside that this house is the ‘stereotypical’ residence of a normal Italian middle class family, what goes on behind closed doors is a different story. The Ristuccia family is fragmented, and does not reflect what we would consider the 'traditional' Italian family unit, since every member is attempting to realise their own dreams, ignorant to the fact that their family is breaking up around them.
Juxtaposing scenes of passion with those of tragedy, Ricordati Di Me is a film which keeps you entertained from beginning to end. The actors all offer superb performances, especially Bellucci, who seems to steal the lime light to some degree, with her unassertive sex appeal and truly captivating performance.
Jonathan Harding
C is for Congress – The method of implication and application of the game and its rules are discussed and potentially altered at the FIFA Congress meetings. Since 1904 the congress has met 66 times and only since 1998 has that been made into an annual decision. The irony of all of this is of course since sitting down moreoften, less constructive developments appear to have been made. Food for thought though.
D is for Development – Although each countries development is run through their respective FA’s, FIFA obviously has the defining word on the rules and regulations and of course, as previously stated, the application and implication of the game itself. The question is, as we all know (doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do more about it), in which direction is football, as a professional sport headed if corruption, deceit and an elitism rules the sport? Surely not in the direction we want, which is certainly not the reason we all fell in love with the game in the first place.
From the moment you arrive in St Andrews, you are immersed in the history of the game of golf.
Every hole of the famous links course is special, particularly the par-4 Road Hole 17th, probably the most well-known in all of golf. Add that to all the other landmarks you will pass such as Hell’s Bunker and the Valley of Sin and it really becomes a must for golfers of all standards and nationalities- it is no wonder therefore that the Old Course is visited by Golfers of all nationalities from all over the world.
A post-round drink in the Jigger Inn (the most famous pub in all of golf) is also a must to enhance of your visit and immerse yourself in the tradition of St Andrews. Playing the old Course allows you to physically walk on the same ground as your heroes, which is a unique sporting opportunity- you would not be able to play a game of tennis at any of the Grand Slam venues or have a kick around in the hallowed ground of a world class football stadium, for example.
Yes, for the amateur golfer the wind is almost unbearable, and the greens are the equivalent to putting on glass, but this should not detract from the beauty that surrounds you. Wherever in the world you travel from to get to this magical town, you will all as golfers, be coming home.
After all, St Andrews is the home of golf- and what man does not like returning to his spiritual home?
Aimee Oliver
Harry Frost Editor
Despite seeming somewhat gay-friendly with magazine Têtu in wide circulation and the introduction of PACS (civil union) in 1999, it would seem that France is not exactly the land of liberté, égalité and fraternité that it considers itself to be. The latest figures show that SOSHomophobie, a non-profit organisation, received 1483 testimonies from victims of homophobic abuse in 2010, the highest number since the association began publishing an annual report in 2000. Homophobic attacks on the internet have also seen a steady increase of 15% from 2004 to 2010, due undoubtedly to the anonymity of posting online. Perhaps the most worrying statistic is the 43% increase in discrimination and violence in public places.
If the conservative UMP stay in power, then it seems unlikely that marriage between two members of the same sex will be brought in, especially as the AssembléeNationalevoted against legalising same-sex marriage in June 2011, with most of the votes against legalisation belonging to members of the UMP. With hommes politiques such as Christian Vanneste exerting power, it is hard to see any end in sight to this homophobic presence. Vanneste, who belongs to the more right-wing section of the UMP, stated in a twenty minute video that narcissism is fundamental to homosexuality and spoke in length about ‘the famous legend about the deportation of homosexuals’, claiming that during the Second World War no homosexuals were forced out of France, and nor did deportation occur anywhere except Germany.
This isn’t the first time that Vanneste has put forward his bigoted opinion. In 2004, in an interview for TF1, he insisted that homosexuality was a negative way of behaving, and ‘like all negative behaviours, one can easily discourage it or re-educate oneself’. A year later, he equated homosexuality to ‘a menace to humanity’s survival’. This latter comment, amongst many others spoken throughout 2005, landed Vanneste in trouble with the police; he was fined 3000 Euros, but the case was thrown out of court as what was said was ‘within limits of freedom of expression’.
There may be light at the end of the tunnel, however, as current leader of the polls and candidate for the PS, François Hollande, has promised that if he wins the election on the 6th May, he will grant marriage and adoption rights to same-sex partners. The UMP has also distanced itself from Vanneste’s views and is prepared to ban him from running in the legislative elections taking place in June. It is clear that this surge of homophobia must be addressed in order for France to finally become the land of liberty, equality and brotherhood that its citizens deserve.
La grande ville de Caen est située en Normandie, à deux heures de train de Paris. Détruite pendant la deuxième guerre mondiale, l’architecture d’aujourd’hui reflète son histoire, les bâtiments nouveaux et anciens se mélangent. L’université a été reconstruite entre 1948-1957, et le symbole du phénix représente sa renaissance.
Il y a beaucoup de cours dispensés à l’université de Caen, mais c’est normal pour les Erasmus de choisir des matières comme la littérature ou les cours de langue ou de traduction. Au début du semestre il est difficile de tout comprendre, et bien sûr il faut travailler dur, mais rien qu’avec un peu de boulot, il est possible de réussir aux examens.
Mais l’année Erasmus n’est pas faite seulement pour étudier! Au centre-ville de Caen il y a beaucoup des magasins, vos préférés d’Angleterre come H&M et Zara, mais aussi des typiquement français comme Galeries Lafayette et Printemps.
Il y a trois cinémas à Caen, qui sont très bon marché, et cela peut-être très utile d’y aller afin de pratiquer la compréhension de la langue.
Pour sortir, la ville est pleine de bars, et chaque semaine le groupe Erasmus organise une soirée pour les étudiants étrangers, donc il y a toujours quelque chose à faire! Il y a une vieille et très jolie rue avec des petits bars français, où les étudiants passent leur temps. Il y a aussi un port, où on peut trouver des bars irlandais et karaokés pour les soirées moins banales! Les boites de nuit sont très différentes de celles de Birmingham – beaucoup plus petites et plus intimes pour passer de bonnes soirées!
De plus, Caen est situé à côté de la mer, et pendent les jours ensoleillés, on peut prendre du plaisir à se détendre sur la plage. A proximité de Caen, on trouve les petites villes balnéaires d’Honfleur, Deauville et Cabourg pour ceux qui veulent faire des promenades sur le sable.
Chloe Osborne Editor
La première semaine du semestre.
C’est une semaine assez stressante pour une étudiante anglaise en France. En Angleterre, on nous donne un emploi du temps personnel, avec tous les cours clairement marqués- ce n’est pas comme ça en France!
Il y a une variété déconcertante de cours, vous devez trouver les salles vousmêmes, et de plus, les étudiants Erasmus ne sont jamais inscrit pour des cours- au début du semestre nous demandons, toujours embarrassés, si nous pouvons suivre un cours- et nous espérons que les professeurs ne disaient pas ‘Non!’
Mais bien que ce soit un peu stressant de trouver les cours quelquefois, c’est aussi une grande occasion pour les étudiants Erasmus. À Birmingham, j’ai un choix de cours bien sûr, mais en France je peux choisir entre une telle variété de départements et matières- c’est le privilège des étudiants Erasmus. Le semestre dernier j’ai suivi les cours d’histoire, de littérature et aussi de traduction, et même les cours que je n’ai jamais fait, comme la linguistique. Donc si vous avez l’occasion d’étudier en France avec Erasmus….. profitez-en! Après tout, c’est probablement votre première et dernière occasion d’étudier un grand mélange de matières, comme vous aurez seulement une année plus d’études à Birmingham. Donc excusez-moi maintenant, je dois essayer de trouver l’emploi du temps pour le deuxième semestre. La bureaucratie française est souvent critiquée, mais cette fois elle me donne l’occasion de choisir mes propres cours, et la meilleure chose? Je peux choisir d’avoir mes vendredis de libres!
Les Restaurants du Cœur – les Relais du Cœur sont une association fondée en 1985, par Coluche, un grand comédien. Son but principal est << d’aideretd’apporterune assistancebénévoleauxpersonnesdémunies>> . A cause des problèmes dans la société et l’économie, il existe de plus en plus de personnes qui se retrouvent sans domicile, sans emploi, avec peu d’argent. Les bénévoles ont servis un milliard de repas depuis leur création, comptant 109 millions en 2010-2011, mais ils apportent aussi l’aide à l’insertion des individus dans la société. L’association acquiert une grande partie de ses ressources grâce aux donateurs et aux concerts des Enfoirés qui est un groupe de chanteurs et comédiens avec Jean-Jacques Goldman en tête. Ensemble ils interprètent la fameuse chanson des Restos sur le plateau d’une émission de télévision dédiée aux Restos. Vous pouvez acheter l’album du concert, les profits allant directement à l’association.
<< C’estpasvraimentdemafautesi y’enaquiontfaim,maiscaledeviendrait,sionn’ychangerien>> Coluche.
www.restosducoeur.org
www.enfoires.com
Alejandro González Iñárritu es un director mexicano que ha puesto en marcha un renacimiento del cine de su patria, junto con otros famosos tales como el actor Gael García Bernal y el productor Guillermo del Toro. Nació en 1963, y cuenta entre sus diversas influencias los autores Julio Cortázar y Jorge Luis Borges (en particular, un estilo de crónica no lineal). Crea obras, al principio en español, pero ya atrevió dirigir en inglés, de unas dos o tres horas, y presenta un entero mundo absorbente. Las películas se hallan dentro de lo realista, sino no carente de acción y maravillas. Los personajes sufren los dolores corporales y emocionales y siempre son sumamente verdaderas, luchando y amando en igual medida. Deberías vigilar los estrenos de González Iñárritu porque con cada filme se convierte en más conocido y laureado por las autoridades más altas del cine, ¡en este momento, sus nombramientos Oscar son doce! ¿Y cómo? Con su propia marca del Realismo Mágico.
2000 2003 2012 2006
Amores Perros – escrito por otro mexicano, Guillermo Arriaga, Gael Garcíá Bernal protagoniza en un Mexico City violente, enamorándose con la novia de su hermano a la vez.
21 Grams – Arriaga otra vez, actuado por un elenco de Benicio del Toro, Sean Penn, Naomi Watts y (un irreconocible) Brad Pitt que hacen frente de las consecuencias de un accidente de coche fatal.
Babel Situada en Morocco, Brad Pitt vuelve al lado de Cate Blanchett, y hay un efecto de mariposa mundial desde Japan a los Estados Unidos, a través de Mexico y Morocco.
Biutiful – Las estrellas en esta última obra son Javier Bardem como padre pobre ‘Uxbal’ y la ciudad de Barcelona. Vemos la vista menos glamorosa de los dos.
Dirijida por Manuel Gomez Pereira uno de los mas reconocidos directores de cine Espanoles, Reinases una complicada pero muy divertida historia que sigue la vida de seis hombres homosexuales y lo que podria ser el major dia de sus vidas, su matrimonio. Pero no todo es perfecto como ellos se lo imajinaban. Detras de cada uno de estos hombres estan sus madres, la cuales hacen de esta celebraciones un caos completo pero muy divertido de ver.
Cada personaje lleva una vida complicada con sorpresas, secretos, confesiones y muchas mas emociones con las cuales nos podemos divertir. El tema de la comunidad gay es presentado en una forma diferente a lo que se a visto antes en otras peliculas, la pelicula es muy moderna, y con un mensaje positivo sobre este grupo de personas.
Veronica Forque, Carmen Maura y Marisa Paredes son tres de las famosas actrices que hacen parte de esta magnifica pelicula. Su actuacion y la de los otros personajes hacen de el tema de la homosexualidad sea visto de una manera positiva.
Kafka führt viele Philosophische Themen und Paradoxien ein. Beim analysieren, dessen was er meint, wird man selbst verwirrt. Wie der Erzähler, können wir auch nicht klar sein, was ‚Odradek‘ zu sein scheint oder noch, warum es so wichtig im Leben des Hausvaters sei.
Allmählich bekommt man den Eindruck, dass Kafka ein ‚Odradek‘ hätte gewählt können, um innere menschliche Konflikte und Debatten zu verarbeiten. Der Titel impliziert, dass das ‚Odradek‘ für den Hausvater persönliche Bedeutung hat, und nämlich, dass es etwas darstellt, worum er sich viel Sorgen macht. Der Erzähler versucht das ‚Odradek‘ zu beschreiben, aber er kann das nur vage – als „flache sternartige Zwirnspule“ schildern. Er debattiert, ob das ‚Odradek‘ einen Zweck habe oder vielleicht hatte, als es geschaffen wurde, aber er kommt scheinbar zum Schluss, dass es eigentlich „zwar sinnlos … in seiner Art abgeschlossen“ sei. Es scheint mir, dass er das einfach nicht verstehen kann. Dies könnte ein Symbol für den Kampf des Hausvaters (oder Kafkas) sein, einen Lebenssinn zu finden. Aus einer Freudschen Perspektive, diese Sorge verschwindet oft in seinem Kopf und er kann es nicht „fangen“ aber, wie ein wieder kehrender Albtraum, „kehrt er dann…wieder“, wenn er es nicht erwartet“.
Eine andere Dimension des Textes zeigt die langweilte durcheinander geratene Mentalität des Hausvaters. Unter den philosophischen Überlegungen, sieht der Vater die Welt wie ein Kind und verhält sich wie in einem Abenteuer. Das ‚Odradek‘ scheint eine geheimnisvolle Kreatur zu sein, mit der er sprechen kann, was ziemlich seltsam für ein Holz-objekt ist! Sollten wir glauben, dass der Hausvater sich einsam fühlt? Braucht er einen Begleiter oder jemandem, mit wem er reden kann? Taüscht er sich selbst, oder ist die Bedeutung Kafkas unbeschwerter?
Am Ende kehrt der Hausvater zur Debatte über die Existenz vom ‚Oradek‘ zurück. Er fragt sich, ob ‚Odradek’ immer ohne „eine Art Ziel“ überleben sollte“, worüber es schwierig und „schmerzlich“ für ihn nach zu denken ist. Es ist meiner Meinung nach nicht nur eine persönliche Debatte des Hausvaters (dass er etwas nicht lösen kann) sondern eröffnet Kafka die Debatte auch wieder sum ganzen menschlichen Leben. Er fragt, ob die Welt und Menschen letzlich sinnlos seien und,wenn man stirbt, was hat man erreicht? „Eine Kreuzung“ und „Die Sorge des Hausvaters“ sind typisch für Kafka, weil ein einfaches, alltägliches Ereignis (wie eine Treffen im Bahnhof in der Fall von einer Kreuzung) ein Symbol für existenzielle Probleme wird.
In vielen Wien-Reiseführern findet man häufig Empfehlungen für klassische Sehenswürdigkeiten, wie zum Beispiel die Ringstraße entlangzulaufen, den Turm im Stephansdom hinaufzusteigen, im Prater mit dem Riesenrad zu fahren und den „Kuss“ von Gustav Klimt im Palais Belvedere anzuschauen. Das ist alles zweifellos wunderschön, nach einem Erasmussemester in Wien würde ich jedoch gerne ein paar Insidertipps preisgeben.
Zuerst möchte ich auf ein Thema eingehen das mir besonders am Herzen liegt, das Essen. Ein Wienbesuch ohne die bunten Stände auf dem Naschmarkt besichtigt zu haben, wäre nicht komplett. Es ist wirklich für jeden etwas dabei. Von Thainudeln über türkische Döner, Oliven in den verschiedensten Sorten bis hin zu Österreichs besten Falafel wird alle geboten was das Herz begehrt. Nachdem man sich den Bauch voll geschlagen hat, kann man sich ziemlich günstig ein passendes Souvenir wie beispielsweise ein traditionelles Dirndl oder eine Lederhose kaufen.
Außerdem ist es in Wien verpflichtend die weltbekannte Spezialität, nämlich das Wiener Schnitzel zu probieren. Dieses kann man fast überall kaufen, jedoch kann ich den Schnitzelwirtin der Neubaugasse empfehlen. Die tolle Atmosphäre, die gute Qualität und der günstige Preis für das Schnitzel machen den Schnitzelwirtsehr beliebt.
Die riesengroße Portion und hohe Kalorienzufuhr könnte man dadurch abbauen, indem man auf Wiens größten Hügel hinaufsteigt. Hier kann man nicht nur das unglaublich schöne Panorama über ganz Wien genießen, sondern auch Wiens eigene Heurigen (Wirtshäuser) erkunden. Von Grinzing aus muss man zu Fuß mit etwa eineinhalb bis zwei Stunden rechnen, um den gesamten Weg zu gehen. Die große Auswahl und Verkostung an verschiedenen „Weisweingespritzten“ lädt aber dazu ein, den ganzen Nachmittag zu bleiben.
Wenn man Wien im Sommer besucht, bietet die Alte Donau eine gute Möglichkeit, dem Trubel der Straßen zu entgehen. Fährt man mit der U-Bahnlinie U1 lediglich zehn Minuten vom Wiener Zentrum heraus, befindet man sich am ehemaligen Flussufer der Donau. Dort scheint es, als sei man in einer anderen Welt, wo man ruhig in der Sonne liegen, baden und sogar segeln kann.
Also, ob man nun ein Feinschmecker ist, die Kultur genießen oder einfach nur entspannen will: Wien bietet bestimmt alles was das Herz begehrt!
“Macau”, também conhecido como Região Administrativa Especial de Macau da República Popular da China (RAEM) – talvez já ouvistes falar dele?
Macau está localizado em todo o estuário do Rio das Pérolas, Hong Kong. Ele era uma colônia portuguesa desde 1887, até o dia 20 de Dezembro de 1999. Antes desta data, Macau foi colonizado e administrado por Portugal durante mais de 400 anos e é considerado o primeiro entreposto, bem como a última colónia europeia na Ásia e no qual o português é uma das línguas oficiais, juntamente com o cantonês.
Actualmente, Macau experimenta um grande e acelerado crescimento económico, baseado no desenvolvimento acentuado dos setores de desporte e turística - as duas actividades económicas vitais da região administrativa especial chinesa.
Em comparação com Hong Kong, Macau tem uma história mais visível e colorida. Quando caminhas pela cidade antiga, poderias convencer-te que estivesses na Europa – se as ruas estivessem desprovidas das pessoas e se as sinalizações não fossem em chinês!
Embora Macau seja melhor conhecido pelo jogo, tem também muitas atrações e esvai-se com a atmosfera, graças s centenas de anos de fusão entre a Europa e a China - em particular em quanto à comida, sobre a qual escreverei na próxima ediçao.
Harry Frost Editor
“Corre corre…eles têm ovos” – gritou Diogo…É assim que começou o meu primeiro carnaval de sempre. Desde que cheguei a Portugal já passaram 11 anos e sem dúvida alguma o Carnaval é um dos maiores feriados nacionais.
A origem da palavra Carnaval não é clara mas muitos consideram que vem da expressão latina CarrumNovalis , com que os Romanos abriam as suas celebrações, ou de carnemlevare , que significa abstinência de carne e coincide com o facto de o Carnaval ser a última festa do início da Quaresma.
O actual carnaval português é distinguido pela sua originalidade, alegria e diversão. Contudo, não foi sempre assim. O antigo carnaval português ou “Entrudo” na maior parte das vezes era uma brincadeira bastante violenta. As pessoas saiam para rua com intuito de criar uma verdadeira guerra em que as armas eram ovos, laranjas, tremoços, agua, todos objectos disponíveis a sua volta e até mesmo pastéis de nata.
Hoje em dia, o carnaval é uma atracção turística que tem um simbolismo especial. É festejado pelo Portugal inteiro, contudo, cada região tem a sua marca única. Os mais famosos carnavais de Portugal são de Madeira, Loulé, Ovar. O carnaval de Torres Vedras é considerado como o “carnaval mais português de Portugal” e é feito com intuito de satirizar o estado Português.
Para além de uma muita música e dança, é numa altura tão importante e difícil que as multidões mascaradas saem para rua com enorme espírito de diversão e alegria. De mais pequenos aos mais velhos, com muito amor e entusiasmo, parece que as cidades ganham vida. É claro que a para animar a multidão mais ainda, a cerveja e vinho não poderiam faltar. Mais logo à noite, a festa é acompanhada com os bailes, jogos e competições de mascaras.
Para além de festejos e diversão o Carnaval desempenhou um papel muito importante no desenvolvimento do teatro, musica, costumes e tradições populares.
Todos anos, fico espantado e não me canso de ver o Carnaval. Saem para rua, divirtam-se, façam outras pessoas rir e esquecer os problemas quotidianos. É como se costuma dizer “É Carnaval, ninguém leva a mal”!
随着现今社会的高速发展，每个人都有各自要追逐的东西，但是我们仿佛已经忘了什么是快 乐、什么叫珍惜。这是一部根据编剧罗启锐童年经历拍成的电影。电影里讲述的是在七十年 代的香港，主角一家过的并不是什么富裕的生活，他们来自社会低下阶层，父亲(任达华饰) 有一间鞋店，而且一家人起居饮食等等都在那儿。他们生活虽然艰苦，但活得有意义。电影 的主旨就是叫人珍惜亲情，用「一步难一步佳」及「做人总要信」等励志箴言去勉励人要逆 境自强。导演用了轻盈的拍摄手法，透过小孩的眼睛倒映创作者记忆中的那个香港。尽管这 是一部非主流电影，但它却是香港近年来难得一见的好电影。
Mandarin is said to be the most difficult language in the world to learn, so why do people still learn it?
by Klarissa Stawarz
When we think of Mandarin, we think about China (中国), the complicated characters (中国文字) and the excellent cuisine (食品). But maybe we should think about it as the language of the future and perhaps a language which brings a world of opportunities. With 885 million native speakers, it is the most spoken language in the world. Nowadays a language like Mandarin is a vital necessity in the business world. With the US making long term investments in China as more and more countries are doing business in renminbi (Chinese dollars), not the US dollar, there is less and less need to speak English. As China’s economy grows – averaging 10% a year, businesses will be desperate for bilingual English and Mandarin speakers to help with trading and business. Not only this, if the renminbi becomes the new reserve currency, it would make china the most economically powerful country in the world.
Every aspect of Chinese culture is brimming with long-standing traditions and superstitions and Chinese New Year is no exception! Here are just a few interesting customs that the Chinese like to practise around New Year:
Wish a happy new year to everyone you meet by saying 新年快乐! (xīn nián kuài lè!)
Wear articles of red clothing as red symbolises luck.
Eat a whole fish as it represents togetherness and abundance.
Children should stay up as late as possible on New Year’s Eve as it is believed that the longer they stay up, the longer their parents will live!
For every child you see give them two ‘lai’ because happiness comes in twos. This is considered as a way of passing luck on to the next generation. Business owners will also give two ‘lai’ to employees and associates.
Wear white or black clothing as these are the traditional colours of mourning.
Buy new shoes for the first month of the New Year, because the sound of the shoe in Chinese is “hai”. “Hai” is similar to the sound of sighing, which the Chinese believe is not a good way to start the New Year.
Sweep floors or dispose of rubbish on the first day of the New Year for fear of casting riches out the door.
Break any plates or dishes; otherwise you may receive more misfortune for the rest of New Year. In the event of breaking a dish, quickly say “peace for all time” and the bad luck will be warded off.
Borrow or lend money.
Cut any noodles left in your bowl, as these signify long life.
You’ve probably never heard of Kyrgyzstan. If you have, it’s highly likely you know me. Since spending a month teaching English there last summer, I have become known as ‘the girl who talks about Kyrgyzstan’ (trust me, I live up to the name…). You may expect that, as it is a former Soviet Republic, that Kyrgyzstan is going to be an extension of Russia. However this is certainly not the case. Kyrgyzstan is very much its own country: it’s Muslim for a start, and while one of the official languages is Russian, Kyrgyz is the language of choice in the villages. They’re very proud of their culture – from ‘besh barmak’ (the national dish) to the Lake Issyk-Kul, which they couldn’t show off enough.
I stayed with a Kyrgyz lady called Anipa, her husband, her five sons and her grandson. Anipa was the model traditional woman: she cooked, she cleaned, she worked for the local school, and in the feminist NGO I was volunteering for called Erayim, and she socialised with her neighbours a lot. On top of all that, for the month that I was there, she was fasting for Ramadan! Her twin eleven year old boys were my best friends for that month, and her grandson was gorgeous. He and I didn’t actually share a common language, as he spoke zero Russian and I spoke zero Kyrgyz, so I just chatted to him in English and he babbled back to me in Kyrgyz. It worked for us!
The kids I taught were an absolute joy. They were so keen to learn, and I had so much fun teaching them. I will never forget the lesson I did on questions – I got them to ask me questions about England, and they asked me things like ‘Have you met the Queen?’ and one more advanced student asked me ‘Do you know what is going in England at the moment?’ I didn’t, of course, as I had been cut off from the world for two weeks by then. What had actually happened were the riots, but she told me there was a revolution going on...
The organiser in the UK is currently looking for people to take part in this year’s project. If you want the details, please don’t hesitate to contact me (cxw943@bham.ac.uk). You have to have the equivalent of at least AS level Russian to take part but it’s otherwise open to anyone.
Tweet us (@LinguistRussia) with your ideas and comments.
Прощайте, товарищи!
By Ella NicolWant to know more about Russian Culture, but didn’t know where to start? Well, you’re in luck! Welcome to the first of many reviews of Russian music, cinema, theatre, art, and anything else we can think of! This issue, I’ll be reviewing one of Russia’s big metal bands, Чёрный Обелиск, also known as Black Obelisk outside of Russia.
Жанр - ХевиМетал
Годы– 1986 –НашиДни
По-моему, Чёрный Обелиск улучшается
больше и больше с возрастом. Их ранное
творчество может быть трудный найти на «YouTube», но когда вы слушаете «Тебя Болше Нет» или «Пятая Песня», вы не будете разочарованы. Если вам нравится «Iron Maiden», вы будете любить Чёрный Обелиск. Ожесточенное пение и мелодичный гитаре делают их новые песни, как «Сука (Разговоры)» и «Капли Дождя», особенно броским. Я рекомендую албум «Нервы»
дляновыйслушателей.
Русский Язык Критический Обзор Музыки
Sales Coordinator at French Connection, and University of Birmingham languages alumnus, Holly Roper- Newman:
YOU WORK IN THE SALES DEPARTMENT OF FRENCH CONNECTION. CAN YOU TELL ME EXACTLY WHAT YOUR JOB ENTAILS?
Interviews by Amy Wakeham and Maddie Kilminster
I’m the International Sales Coordinator, which means I work on the export wholesales team. We have a wholesales team which sells to shops across the UK, but my department, about five people, sells to the rest of the world. Mainly Europe though. We work for franchise stores, multi-brand boutiques and department stores, and we also work with our agents who buy for other boutiques and department stores. On a day to day basis I monitor orders from stockists, set up orders with new clients, visit showrooms in Paris and Milan and get together the digital version of each season’s Lookbook. I also organise marketing material from posters to campaign shots and advertising images, and also relay with the marketing and design teams.
DO YOU THINK BEING MULTI-LINGUAL HAS GIVEN YOU THE EDGE IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
Definitely. I’m selected for visiting the showrooms in Paris and Milan because I’m the only person on my team who can speak the languages; not even my boss can speak them! Just speaking to people in their own language really helps, because it allows trust to develop and breaks down barriers. In my job, trust is of massive importance, especially in this difficult economic climate. We lose and gain customers all the time, so it’s important to show that, as a company, we’re making an effort for them. People are so surprised when a Brit starts speaking another language, and this enables me to develop great relationships with them. The client/company relationship is so important to maintain; being able to communicate is the great thing about learning a foreign language.
HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR CAREER PROGRESSING IN THE FUTURE? DO YOU SEE YOURSELF CLIMBING THE RANKS AT FRENCH CONNECTION?
I’d like to, although I don’t think I will, as we’re just such a small team and there isn’t a huge hierarchy at French Connection. I think hopefully they’re going to create a role for me to directly liaise between independent customers and French Connection; I think my strength at communication, through my language skills, is what has really opened up this specific opportunity of me. I’d like to stay on at French Connection for another couple of years, because I’m learning so much and I love my job. Ideally however, I’d love to work for Burberry, which is really because they have a lot of work out in Italy which I’d love to be involved in. Down the line, I’d really love to be head of international sales.
WHAT ARE THE BEST AND WORST ASPECTS OF YOUR JOB?
Best aspects are the travel, the opportunity to perfect my languages, work with amazing people from across the world and meet really interesting people from all over the place. And also all the free clothes! The worst is just the amount of work; because I’m the sole linguist in my department quite often I have to deal with customers and stockists who otherwise I wouldn’t have anything to do with. But that’s okay, it keeps me busy!
Take any and every opportunity that comes up, even if it doesn’t quite follow any ‘game plan’ that you might have. Use your contacts as much as you can; at the end of the day, they might be the person who finds you that amazing next job! A lot of companies don’t actually advertise jobs externally, so having a contact in a business will mean that you’ll be the one alerted whenever a position comes up. Make loads of contac ts and make sure to keep in touch with them! Also, be persistent and don’t worry about any skills that aren’t of your ability in: the best way to learn is just by doing it on the job!
WHAT EXACTLY DOES THE ROLE OF A EUROPEAN SERVICES ADVISOR INVOLVE?
What we do is help companies optimize overseas opportunities. That means if a company is interested in going into a new market, we will help them find out how their product fits into that market. If they want to expand their market, we’ll try and find out what they need to do. We hel p to make sure that the messages they’re communicating to the customers are what they mean them to be. For example a company in Austria had the slogan “ amEndederStraβe” which can be translated either as “at the end of the road” or “at journey’s end”. We would make sure that this was checked so the company didn’t embarrass themselves. On another level, we help on marketing consultancy. Not market research, as that’s just figures, but things like finding out whe ther or not people really want the product or service. Taking Italy as an example; the Italians are so protective over their children that you can easily create a product that they would deem too harmful. Whereas in Sweden and Norway they want their kids to be much more independent.
WHAT DO YOU MOST DISLIKE AND LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
What I most dislike is trying to convince people that you have to get to know your customer. It is frustrating as they tend to believe that if a product works in one place it must work the same in another. This is because most people who work in exports have never lived in another country. When they go on holiday their experience of that place is merely what has been supplied for the British tourists. That’s the thing I hate most. The thing I love most is having insights into other countries. I personally feel almost at home in places like the Alps.
DO YOU BELIEVE YOU COULD HAVE DONE THE JOB YOU ARE CURRENTLY DOING HAVING NOT TRAVELLED AS WIDELY AS YOU HAVE?
Impossible. It is very much a matter of being the eyes and ears of companies and unless you know what you’re looking for you can’t get it. Recently, on a trip to Italy, it was interesting to see how little some of my colleagues who didn’t speak Italian could glean compared to me. Their transcripts were simply wrong.
ON A MORE PERSONAL LEVEL, DID YOU EVER ENVISAGE WHERE YOU WERE GOING TO END UP IN YOUR LIFE?
No. It has taken a totally different path! I always wanted to be a commercial pilot at British Airways. If I had got into that I would have been deliriously happy. But I think I have been able to gain an inner confidence by coping in other countries. People underestimate this. Going through a country where you don’t know the language and managing to get a job and apartment – you feel great.
IN TERMS OF BUSINESS AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES, DO YOU THINK THAT LANGUAGES COME IN IN ANY OTHER FORM?
Let’s put it this way: I personally would never employ anyone who didn’t have at least two languages on top of their mother tongue; one of them being English. From my point of view I think sometimes companies do not place enough value on languages as they should. These communication skills are so vital in business but people seem not to get it.
WOULD YOU AGREE THAT IT OFTEN DOESN’T SEEM TO OCCUR TO TOURISTS TO MAKE AN EFFORT AND LEARN THE LANGUAGE?
Yes, definitely. When I went to Austria it was simply automatic to me that I would learn the language. I came across native English speakers who just didn’t have a clue where they were living. They got nothing out of it except from the money.
6% of the world’s population speaks English
35% of Europeans speak English
75% of the world speak no English at all
80% of UK export managers cannot conduct business in a foreign language
1/3 of UK graduates are confident to work
2 large eggs
2 rounded tablespoon plain flour
3-4 tablespoons full-fat milk
Pinch salt
Pinch sugar
1 tblspn Flora buttery – melted
1 tblspn Flora buttery – not melted
350g baking apples peeled and sliced
Pinch cinnamon
70g soft light brown sugar
1. Mix the egg with the flour to a paste.
2. Add the milk very slowly. Use just enough so that the mixture coats the back of a spoon.
3. Stir in a pinch of salt and sugar and the melted Flora. Combine thoroughly.
4. Fry them in heavy based pan until golden on each side, roughly 30 seconds.
5. Serve immediately or leave them to cool, each one separated from the other by greaseproof paper.
1. Melt the Flora in a hot pan, adding the cinnamon and sugar and allow to infuse or about a minute before adding the apples.
2. Cook for about 4-5 minutes just so as they start to break down. Remove from the heat.
3.Lay the crepes out altogether and divide the apple mixture evenly between them.
4. Now divide the crème fraiche also evenly on top of this.
5. Fold the right and left hand sides of each crepe to square off the edges, then roll up from the open end near to you to the top.
6. Lay side by side in a dish and sprinkle with caster sugar and glaze under the grill.
1. Sprinkle the skinned poultry with salt and pepper, then dredge in the flour.
2. Melt the butter with the olive oil in a large pan on medium heat and gradually add the chicken pieces. Brown the pieces on all sides and remove from the pan.
3. When all the pieces have been browned, add the onions and garlic to the pan and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally for five minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes, bouillon cube, and dried thyme, then the browned chicken pieces. Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
5. Add the mushrooms and continue cooking for 15 minutes.
6. Stir in the chopped herb just before serving.
Makes 4 servings
Taken from www.easy-french-food.com
8 pieces chicken, skinned
Salt and pepper
30g flour
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced or pressed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 stock cube
1 teaspoon dried thyme
340g mushrooms, washed, dried and sliced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parley or basil
1. They said goodbye to him as he flew by
4. The country of romance has spread its greeting all around Europe
5. National Anthem of the Frogs
7. Most common name in the world
11. The Dynamic Franco-Deutsch Duo
12. Australia has a cattle farm the size of which middleeastern state?
14. The asexual German
2.Where can you find people covered in tomatoes in August?
3.A hat that sounds like a fruit
6.A Mexican famous for her unusual self-portraits
8.Your Pawpaw sends you an envelope with money inside, you can tell because of the colour
9.Sounds like a currency but really a dictator
10.where Germany won Eurovision for the 2nd time
12.30% of the world’s mobile phone users live here
13.Which ocean does the Christian son of god like to look towards?
“ICH
Literally: I only understand train station
English: It’s all Greek to me.
We are happy to work with any businesses or societies. We would especially like to get involved with those interested in European and international ventures. Please feel free to email us with any inquiries about future advertising at:
thelinguist@guild.bham.ac.uk or madeleinekilminster@hotmail.co.uk (Our chair) www.thelinguistmagazine.org
You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter (Linguist_Mag)
Literally: sell the skin of the bear before you kill it
English: count your chickens before they hatch.
Maddie Kilminster............CHAIR
Steph Taylor......................SECRETARY
Sam Foster........................TREASURERS
Nadia Dillon
Catherine Dawkins............IT & DESIGN TEAM
Helena Loyd-Hughes
Julie Ledesma Padilla…....PUBLICITY
Sam Lowe……………………….PROOF READER
VERSTEHE NUR BAHNHOF”
