In 'Ghetto at the Center of the World', Gordon Mathews takes readers on a captivating journey through the vibrant and chaotic landscape of Hong Kong's informal settlements. This thought-provoking exploration sheds light on the lives of residents in one of the world's most densely populated areas, revealing the complexities of poverty and resilience. Mathews intriguingly juxtaposes local narratives with broader global issues, challenging our perceptions of urban life and economic disparity. The book not only uncovers the rich cultural fabrics of the ghetto but also invites reflection on the interconnectedness of humanity. Prepare to be immersed in a narrative that is both enlightening and deeply human, urging readers to reconsider what it means to thrive against the odds.
By Gordon Mathews
Published: 2011
"In the heart of the city, amidst the chaos and vibrancy of life, we find the truth of human existence—where resilience meets despair, and hope emerges from the most unlikely of places."
4e de couv.: Chungking Mansions, a dilapidated seventeen-story commercial and residential structure in the heart of Hong Kong's tourist district, is home to a remarkably motley group of people. Traders, laborers, and asylum seekers from all over Asia and Africa live and work there, and even backpacking tourists rent rooms in what is possibly the most globalized spot on the planet. But as Ghetto at the center of the world shows us, the Mansions is a world away from the gleaming headquarters of multinational corporations -instead it epitomizes the way globalization actually works for most of the world's people. Through candid stories that both instruct and enthrall, Gordon Mathews lays bare the building's residents' intricate connections to the international circulation of goods, money, and ideas.
Gordon Mathews is an acclaimed author and anthropologist known for his insightful exploration of cultural identity and globalization. His notable works include 'Glocalization: Time-Space and Cultural Change in the New Asian Diaspora' and 'Gordon Mathews: The Global and the Local.' Mathews' writing is characterized by a blend of rigorous scholarly analysis and engaging narrative, making complex sociocultural concepts accessible to a wide audience. His research and writings have made significant contributions to understanding how local cultures adapt within the global context.
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In 'The Essays of Ralph Waldo Emerson', the renowned philosopher and transcendentalist challenges conventional thinking and invites readers to explore the depths of their own intellect and spirit. Each essay weaves together profound insights on nature, individuality, and the essence of existence, urging a connection with the divine within. Emerson's eloquent prose ignites a desire for self-discovery and a rejection of societal norms. With themes of solitude, self-reliance, and the beauty of the natural world, the essays resonate with anyone seeking a deeper understanding of life. Discover the timeless wisdom that continues to inspire generations and contemplate the boundaries of your own thoughts.
In Shel Silverstein's whimsical tale 'The Missing Piece,' a circular character embarks on a journey to find its perfect counterpart. As it rolls and encounters various shapes, it learns about the joys and challenges of searching for completeness. Each meeting brings valuable insights about love, acceptance, and the beauty of imperfection. With Silverstein's signature blend of humor and poignancy, the story invites readers to ponder their own quests for wholeness. Will the character discover that the missing piece has been within all along?
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“In the heart of the city, amidst the chaos and vibrancy of life, we find the truth of human existence—where resilience meets despair, and hope emerges from the most unlikely of places.”
Ghetto at the Center of the World
By Gordon Mathews
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