Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Firecrackers

The sound of firecrackers is common here in Suzhou and I guess anywhere else in China. Initially, I thought that firecrackers were just being used for a celebration of some sort but have learnt that they are other uses.

In ancient China, they burnt bamboo stems to create small explosions in order to drive away bad forces. Nowadays, the lighting of firecrackers signifies different occasions. It is an important part of the Chinese New Year Eve's celebrations and it also signals a funeral procession, an apology, a joyous occasion and as my new neighbour explained, before a tenant moves into a new house or apartment they use firecrackers to scare away any evil spirits.

1 comment:

  1. woooowwww very very interesting indeed...

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