In one of the most memorable cultural exchanges of the 20th century, Icelandic diplomat and sinologist Ragnar Baldursson shares his unforgettable journey into China back in 1975. At a time when the reform and opening-up period was just beginning, his arrival ushered in a wave of discovery that would forever shape his life. 🌏
Baldursson vividly recalls his first steps in a country where "simple lives, happy people, lots of smiles" were more than just words—they captured a genuine way of life. Despite the initial surprises in Beijing, those moments paved the way for a deep connection with Chinese culture.
Embarking on his translation work with classics like "The Analects of Confucius" and "Tao Te Ching," he discovered that capturing the essence of Chinese philosophy required more than linguistic skill—it demanded an appreciation for rich historical and cultural contexts. Even a seemingly small anecdote about soil color highlighted vast differences in how the two cultures perceive the world.
Now featured in CGTN's series "East Encounters West: Talk to Sinologists," Baldursson's story is a vibrant reminder of the power of cross-cultural dialogue. His lifelong passion for bridging Eastern and Western perspectives continues to inspire young minds and global citizens to explore, respect, and learn from one another. 📚
Reference(s):
The 1975 encounter: An Icelandic scholar's lifelong bond with China
cgtn.com
