The word “sinicize” captured my imagination as I watched the May 2008 National Spelling Championship on TV. It means “to modify by Chinese influence.”
Well, consider me sinicized! During last night’s stunning opening ceremony for the Beijing 2008 Olympics (thank you very much director Zhang Yimou), I was awed by the beauty, precision, and deep cultural traditions on display. Chinese history and culture are ancient, complex, and full of endless variety, and that does include the culinary heritage, too, which most of us Westerners (and, sadly, many young Chinese people) will barely get to know in our lifetimes. Last night’s ceremony was, for me, the best of China on display.
NJ SPICE 