The post defends the necessity of human writing over AI, emphasizing the unique motives and personal experiences that AI cannot replicate.
About:
Jaap Grolleman is a Dutch strategist and writer in Shanghai, passionate about creativity and language learning.
Website:
Specializations:
Interests:
Subscribe to RSS:
Exploring the relationship between writing and meaning, the author reflects on personal experiences and the quest for deeper insights into humanity.
Cultural differences between Dutch and Chinese attitudes towards confrontation and social responsibility are explored through personal anecdotes in Shanghai.
Zhengyi Old Street serves as a backdrop for exploring the complexities of photography and the selective nature of capturing reality in a rapidly modernizing China.
The author reflects on their parents' visit to Shanghai after seven years, noting both the city's physical changes and their personal growth during that time. While Shanghai has seen new developments like parks and the rise of ele...
The author reflects on the stark contrast between the serene experience of stargazing in rural Zhejiang and the overwhelming crowds and lack of privacy in Shanghai. The text discusses the challenges of finding personal space in a ...
The blog post discusses a memorable food item called 'Toilet Egg Pancake' from a shop in Kunshan, which gained fame due to its unusual name linked to its original location next to a public toilet. The pancakes are praised for thei...
A journey through the U.S. prompts reflections on hyperreality, authenticity, and the contrast between vibrant culture and personal disconnection during a hike in the mountains.
The author reflects on their love for specific locations in Shanghai rather than the city as a whole. They highlight various lesser-known spots, including Ye Garden, Jiangwan Stadium, the North Bund, Xinchang, Tangzhen Park, Sijin...
Longmen's historical charm and vibrant culture are beautifully captured through the author's reflections on photography and the significance of preserving memories.
Xixinan Village offers a tranquil escape from urban life, highlighting its unique water management and cultural blend, while reflecting on the harmony of nature and changing seasons.
A trek to the abandoned village of Zaotai highlights the contrast between traditional life and modernity, emphasizing the significance of preserving fading places.
A collection of personal stories from China that reveal cultural insights and humor in everyday life, showcasing generational differences and social dynamics.
The post explores the contrast between commercialized tourist spots and authentic local experiences in traditional Chinese towns, highlighting the loss of cultural heritage.
Living on the outskirts of Shanghai reveals both stark class differences and unexpected similarities, particularly in community and cultural celebrations.
The author reflects on their first airplane experience 25 years ago and contrasts it with their current life as a parent. They express how the thrill of flying has diminished over time, while the joy of experiencing the world thro...
Yuliang Village, rich in history and less touristy, features a unique dam and is surrounded by vibrant local culture as Chinese New Year approaches.
The author recounts a whirlwind day trip from Shanghai to Taipei, emphasizing the unique experiences and impressions gained from the journey despite its impracticality and fatigue. The narrative reflects on personal changes since ...
The blog post describes a visit to Qibao, an ancient water town in Shanghai, highlighting its transformation into a tourist destination. The author shares experiences of exploring the town, including a visit to a Catholic church w...
The blog post narrates a conversation between a taxi driver and a passenger, highlighting the driver's frustrations with the earnings from a ride-hailing app. The driver expresses dissatisfaction with the low fare for a six-kilome...
The author shares their frustrating experience of trying to cancel a China Mobile broadband subscription, highlighting the bureaucratic challenges faced by expats in China. They recount multiple trips to different stores and gover...
The author explores an old decaying house, the Gulu Guandi Temple, located in Gudong Village, Shanghai. Originally built in 1910 as a government office, it has served various purposes over the years, including a police station and...
Majin Village buzzes with activity as residents prepare for the Chinese New Year, showcasing a lively market atmosphere filled with diverse goods and community spirit.
The author recounts a hiking trip along the Maling Ancient Road with their parents, detailing the journey from home to Tonglu, the challenges posed by unexpectedly hot weather, and the scenic changes experienced during the hike. T...