Journal 7: Communication and Food

Journal: Communication 

Before reading the section on high and low-context communication, I had never given much thought about the ways in which I communicate with other people. Like other aspects of my culture, low-context communication is so ingrained in me that I never noticed it. However, I did notice that some of my communication styles, depending on the situation, are similar to high-context communication styles. For example, I am more likely to be very indirectly when I am invited out but cannot or do not want to go. I very much subscribe to the idea of “saving face,” especially when it comes to friends and family. I also initially use high-context communication when discussing a topic that a friend and myself disagree on. Rather than dodge or ask questions, though, I tend to argue both sides, though I am sure that my friend knows my true thoughts by the time the discussion comes to an end. I have a terrible poker face. I am also very indirect about expressing when I want or need something. I suppose it may be due to my upbringing (not wanting to be a burden or annoy other people by making a request for something they may not think I need), and I usually only hint at something, even though this is not usually effective with some people. Other than that, I am very “American” in that I rely heavily on low-context communication to get me through the day. When being given directions, coordinating plans with a group of people, allocating tasks for a project, or simply having a conversation, I tend to expect for others to be straightforward and will reciprocate. As much as I like to think that I am capable of understanding what someone is saying, or implying, based on their tone, body language, and phrasing, I am more comfortable having conversations with people who use low-context communication styles. I have a fear of misunderstanding and/or being misunderstood, so I like to give as much relevant information as possible and prefer to be given information that will help me understand the other person as well as possible. Seeing as how I will be studying in China and Japan, two cultures that rely on high-context communication, I feel that the experience will help me to become more perceptive to how others are feeling. Additionally, it may help me to more accurately read the situation and respond accordingly. Given that I use both high and low-context communication styles, I hope that I will be able to apply my own communication methods when they would be appropriate. When it comes to nonverbal communication, especially when it comes to eye contact, I generally avoid it (especially with people I don’t know very well or with professors). It is more a habit of nervousness, but I feel that this may save me when I communicate with others in my host countries, considering that direct eye contact is seen as a sign of intimidation. Overall, I hope to better hone my communication styles while abroad, though I am sure that will not be easy.  

Blog: Chinese Mooncakes

A mooncake is a Chinese desert traditionally eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival  The festival is for lunar appreciation and moon watching, when mooncakes are regarded as a delicacy. Mooncakes are offered between friends or on family gatherings while celebrating the festival. The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the four most important Chinese festivals.

The festival is intricately linked to legends of Chang E, the Moon Goddess typically associated with immortality. According to the Liji, an ancient Chinese book recording customs and ceremonies, the Chinese Emperor would need to offer sacrifices to the sun in spring and the moon in autumn. The 15th day of the 8th lunar month is the day called "Mid-Autumn". The night on the 15th of the 8th lunar month is also called "Night of the Moon". The tradition is typically associated with

Because of its central role in the Mid-Autumn festival, mooncakes remained popular even in recent years. For many, they form a central part of the Mid-Autumn festival experience such that it is now commonly known as Mooncake Festival.

Typical mooncakes are round pastries eaten in the Southern Chinese regions. They are usually filled with a rich, thick filling made from red bean or lotus seed paste and surrounded by a thin crust. Mooncakes are usually eaten in small wedges accompanied by tea.

There is a folk tale about the overthrow of Mongolian rule in China facilitated by messages smuggled in moon cakes.

Mooncakes were used by the Ming revolutionaries the end of the Yuan dynasty. It was said that revolutionary leaders distributed mooncakes to each other and their revolutionaries that contained a secret message coordinating the Han Chinese revolt on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month.

Many view the mooncake hidden messages to be a precursor to the modern day fortune cookie. By adding the covert element to the myths of the fortune cookie some have found more meaning behind the simple treat. This led to the act of removing and replacing the fortune inside without breaking for an added bit of good luck. On the other hand, as the fortune cookie originated in either Japan or the USA, there may in fact be no link to mooncakes.

Having heard about the tradition of eating mooncakes in my world culture classes, along with the significance and history surrounding them, when I was younger, I was curious about what went into making this dish and if I would be able to pull it off. Using this recipe, I went to work doing my best to improvise when needed, since the recipe is pretty complicated. I am by no means an expert on baking, but, despite this, I think they turned out just fine. While I did not have access to the tools needed to make the intricate designs, in addition to having to make a second batch, I was able to successfully make mooncakes that tasted delicious. I wasn’t sure if I would like the recipe, but, as it turns out, I did. Though mooncakes are not as popular anymore, I am curious to try different flavors while studying in China.