Raised under London's grey, ever-changing skies, my roots stretched far beyond the English shores, twining with the vibrant, pulsating heart of Hong Kong, my seasonal sanctuary. Every summer, like clockwork, I would traverse continents to reconnect with my family, immersing myself in a city as multifaceted as it was mesmerising. Hong Kong, with its eclectic mix of cultures and its inhabitants, who were as quirky as they were endearing, beckoned me with open arms.
Despite the miles between us, my heritage was a rich tapestry woven from far more than just the threads of Hong Kong's vibrant life. It included touches of Taiwan, echoes of Teochew, whispers of Japan, and the subtle influence of Malaysian traditions, a nod to my grandmother's lineage. Each visit back to this multifaceted city wasn't just a homecoming; it was a plunge into the depths of my multicultural heritage, a dive into the familiar yet always surprising embrace of a world that shaped my identity in more ways than one.
As a young Asian boy navigating the complexities of identity in England, my soul was imbued with an insatiable curiosity about the rich tapestry of my ethnic heritage. This curiosity wasn't just confined to the bounds of Hong Kong; it propelled me towards a voracious desire to explore every corner of the globe, to absorb every nuance of the myriad cultures that paint the human experience.
"Englond" is my humble attempt to distil these external and internal wanderings into a collection of essays and blog posts. It is an invitation extended with an open heart to anyone willing to embark on this journey of discovery with me. Through the pages of this book, I lay bare my reflections, observations, and the myriad lessons learnt along the way. This is not just a recounting of my travels; it is an exploration of identity, belonging, and the perpetual quest for understanding in a world that is forever in flux. Join me as we delve into the stories that have shaped me, hoping that they may resonate, inspire, or perhaps even challenge you to embark on reflective journeys of your own.
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