这部单镜头情景喜剧根据华裔美国厨师黄颐铭（Eddie Huang）的回忆录《初来乍到》改编，主要描述上世纪九十年代一个台湾家庭来到奥兰多定居的故事。黄颐铭的父母都是台湾移民，他从小就热爱美国的一切，尤其是嘻哈乐。他的父亲尚能很好地融入当地社会，但母亲却时常为白人文化感到困惑。他的父亲经营着一家全美国式的牛排餐厅连锁企业，和全家人一起憧憬着「美国梦」。与此同时，他们还要竭力保持自己的民族文化特性，确保家庭的完整。剧名「fresh off the boat」是一个俗语，通常泛指新一代去美国追求「美国梦」的移民。
Eddie向妈妈介绍自己的女朋友，直接说“这是我女朋友”。【Eddie从小在西方的环境长大，中国家长往往比较反对孩子青春期的恋爱，并将青春期的恋爱称为“早恋”，当青春期的孩子发生恋爱行为时常常会隐瞒家长、老师。】
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie直接向妈妈介绍自己的女朋友，简单地说“这是我女朋友”。这一行为反映了西方文化中关于恋爱关系的开放态度。Eddie从小在西方环境中成长，西方文化鼓励个人独立和公开表达情感，因此，Eddie并没有感到需要遮掩或隐瞒自己与女朋友的关系。这种直接的介绍方式显示出西方家庭中对于恋爱关系的接受度较高，尤其是青年人在青春期谈恋爱，家长通常会尊重孩子的选择和情感发展。
1. 西方文化中的恋爱观念
在西方文化中，恋爱被看作是个人生活中的自然部分，尤其是在青春期，年轻人有权决定是否与他人建立恋爱关系，并且这种关系通常不被视为需要隐瞒的事情。许多西方家庭都比较开放，家长会鼓励孩子与伴侣分享关系，并希望通过这种方式了解孩子的感情世界。这与许多传统文化中对青春期恋爱的保守态度不同。
2. 中国文化中的恋爱观念
相较之下，在中国，尤其是传统家庭中，青春期的恋爱往往被视为“早恋”，家长会觉得这是对孩子学业和未来发展的干扰。在中国文化中，家长通常会尽量避免让孩子在这个阶段与异性建立亲密关系，认为这会影响孩子的专注力和情感稳定。孩子往往会在没有父母知情的情况下谈恋爱，或者在谈恋爱时保持隐瞒，甚至将恋爱关系视为一个私密话题，不轻易公开。
3. 文化差异的体现
Eddie的行为体现了西方文化与中国文化在恋爱态度上的明显差异。在西方，恋爱被看作是自然而健康的一部分，家长通常不会过度干涉。相反，中国文化中，家长的介入较多，且对孩子恋爱的态度较为保守，尤其是在学业压力较大的情况下。因此，在中国，青春期恋爱往往被视为一个敏感话题，很多时候孩子会选择隐瞒，而在西方，这种话题则可能会被更加公开和接受。
In the TV show Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie introduces his girlfriend to his mother by simply saying, "This is my girlfriend." This behavior reflects the open attitude toward romantic relationships in Western culture. Having grown up in a Western environment, Eddie does not feel the need to hide or conceal his romantic relationship. This straightforward introduction demonstrates the higher level of acceptance of romantic relationships in Western families, where parents typically respect their children's choices and emotional development, especially when they begin dating during adolescence.
1. Western Attitudes Toward Romance
In Western culture, romantic relationships are viewed as a natural part of an individual's life, especially during adolescence. Young people are expected to have the freedom to decide whether to enter romantic relationships, and such relationships are not seen as something that should be hidden. Many Western families are open and encourage children to share their relationships with their parents, as this helps parents understand their children’s emotional lives. This is in contrast to many traditional cultures, where adolescent romance is often treated more conservatively.
2. Chinese Attitudes Toward Romance
In contrast, in China, especially in traditional families, adolescence romance is often viewed as "early love" and is seen as a potential distraction from academics and future development. In Chinese culture, parents often try to prevent their children from developing close romantic relationships during this stage, believing it could affect their focus and emotional stability. As a result, children may keep their relationships secret from their parents or avoid openly discussing them, viewing romance as a private matter not easily shared.
3. Cultural Differences
Eddie's behavior highlights the clear cultural differences between Western and Chinese attitudes toward romance. In Western culture, romance is seen as a natural and healthy part of life, with parents generally being less involved and more accepting of their children's relationships. In contrast, Chinese culture often involves greater parental intervention, and there is a more conservative attitude toward teenage relationships, especially when academic pressure is high. Therefore, teenage romance is often a sensitive topic in China, and children may choose to conceal it, while in the West, it is more openly acknowledged and accepted.
Mitch不明白Louis对他点头微笑的意思。【反映了中国人拒绝别人的方式：多采用委婉拒绝，意在保全双方的面子和友谊；而西方拒绝别人则更为直接。】
Eddie妈妈给Eddie找中式补习中心，Eddie的校长倡导素质教育。【中国学生的教育以应试教育为主导，更看重学生的学习成绩；西方教育以素质教育为主，更看重学生的素质发展】
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie的妈妈为他找了一个中式补习中心，这反映了中国家长在教育中的传统观念。中国家长通常非常重视学术成绩，尤其是对孩子的学习成绩和考试成绩有着极高的期望。因此，许多中国家长会寻找额外的补习班，帮助孩子提高学科成绩，以应对激烈的学术竞争和考试压力。Eddie的妈妈在面对美国教育系统时，可能认为美国教育体系较为宽松，担心自己的孩子在学术上无法与同龄人竞争，所以她决定采取更为严格的中式补习方式来弥补这一差距。
1. 中国的教育观念
中国传统上重视应试教育，家长普遍认为成绩是衡量孩子未来成功与否的标准。补习班在中国是一种常见的教育辅导方式，尤其是在中小学阶段，许多孩子都需要参加课外的补习班，以提高自己在学校的成绩。这种教育方式通常强调知识的积累和应对考试技巧，目的在于通过额外的学习时间来增强孩子的学术能力，争取更好的升学机会。
2. 美国的教育观念
相较之下，美国的教育体系更注重素质教育，强调全面发展的理念。校长倡导的素质教育重视孩子的综合能力培养，如批判性思维、创造力、社交技能等，而不仅仅是学术成绩。这种教育理念更注重孩子的兴趣发展和个人特长的培养，认为学术成绩是学生成长中的一部分，而不是唯一标准。在美国，学校和家庭通常鼓励孩子探索自己的兴趣，参与课外活动，培养多方面的能力。
3. 文化差异的体现
Eddie妈妈为他寻找中式补习班，体现了她对中国教育体制的信任以及对孩子未来学业成就的关注。而美国校长提倡的素质教育则反映了美国教育的特点，强调多元化的培养方式和对孩子个性与兴趣的尊重。两者的差异在于：在中国，学术成绩和考试成绩被看作是成功的关键，而在美国，尽管学术成绩也重要，但更多地强调的是孩子全面发展的机会。
In the TV show Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie’s mother finds him a Chinese-style tutoring center, which reflects traditional Chinese attitudes toward education. Chinese parents typically place a high emphasis on academic performance, especially exam scores, and often expect their children to excel in school. As a result, many Chinese parents seek out extra tutoring to help their children improve academically and cope with the competitive nature of the education system. Eddie’s mother, perhaps perceiving the American education system as more lenient, is concerned that her child may not be able to compete academically with his peers and decides to rely on the more rigorous Chinese-style tutoring to bridge the gap.
1. Chinese Educational Attitudes
Traditionally, Chinese education places a strong emphasis on exam-oriented learning. Parents often view academic success as the key to their child's future and prosperity. Extra tutoring, or "cram schools," is a common educational practice in China, particularly during the primary and secondary school years. These classes focus on improving test scores and preparing students for exams. The goal is to provide additional learning time to enhance academic abilities and secure better opportunities for higher education.
2. American Educational Attitudes
In contrast, the American education system is more focused on "holistic education," emphasizing the development of a well-rounded individual. The principal’s advocacy for "quality education" reflects the American focus on developing critical thinking, creativity, social skills, and other attributes beyond academic achievement. In the U.S., schools and families encourage children to explore their interests, participate in extracurricular activities, and develop various abilities. While academic performance is still important, it is seen as one aspect of a student's growth, not the only measure of success.
3. Cultural Differences
Eddie’s mother seeking a Chinese-style tutoring center for him demonstrates her trust in the Chinese education system and her focus on her child’s academic success. In contrast, the principal’s promotion of quality education reflects the American educational philosophy, which emphasizes diverse development and respect for the individual’s interests and strengths. The difference lies in the emphasis on academic performance in China, where it is considered the key to success, while in the U.S., there is a greater focus on nurturing a child’s overall development and personal interests.
“我们不需要说我爱你，一眼就能看出来”。【反映中国人表达情感非常含蓄。】
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie与父母之间的关系体现了一种中国文化中的家人之间的亲密与默契。在很多中国家庭中，表达爱意不一定通过直接的语言，如“我爱你”，而是通过日常的行动和行为来体现。中国文化强调的是“含蓄”和“内敛”，家人之间的关爱常常是通过关心、照顾和日常的互动来表达，而不是通过频繁的言语宣示。这种方式在中国家庭中十分普遍，尤其是在长辈与晚辈之间，亲情往往是通过行动来传递的，而不是直接说出“我爱你”这样的言辞。
1. 中国文化中的含蓄
中国文化强调“含蓄”这一特质，尤其在情感表达上。人们认为，过多的言辞可能显得不够真诚，情感的深度和真实往往通过行动而非言辞来体现。例如，父母为孩子做饭、照顾孩子的日常生活，都是他们爱的表现，而不需要用“我爱你”这样的言语来强化。家人之间的这种默契和理解，形成了一种不言而喻的爱。
2. 直接的语言表达与间接的行动表达
相较之下，西方文化中，尤其是在美国，表达“我爱你”是一种常见的行为。许多西方家庭习惯通过直接的语言表达来传递情感，尤其是父母对孩子的爱。美国的文化背景往往更强调语言的直接性和情感的显性表达。通过说出“我爱你”，这种直接的语言表达让彼此更加清楚地了解和确认彼此的情感。
3. 文化差异的体现
Eddie说“我们不需要说我爱你，一眼就能看出来”反映了中国家庭文化中情感表达的方式。对于中国家庭来说，彼此的关心和默契往往比言语上的宣示更为重要。这种文化差异也表现在家庭成员之间的互动方式上：在中国家庭中，往往通过行为来表达爱，而在西方文化中，语言和直接的表达则占据了更重要的地位。
In the TV show Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie’s statement, "We don’t need to say 'I love you,' it’s clear from a glance," reflects the Chinese cultural emphasis on subtlety and unspoken understanding within family relationships. In many Chinese families, love is not necessarily expressed through direct verbal declarations like "I love you," but through everyday actions and behaviors. Chinese culture tends to value "restraint" and "reserve," meaning that family members often express care and affection through actions such as taking care of each other, rather than through frequent verbal declarations. This is especially true in the relationships between parents and children, where affection is often demonstrated through care and attention rather than words.
1. Subtlety in Chinese Culture
Chinese culture places a high value on subtlety, particularly in emotional expression. It is believed that excessive words can seem insincere, and the depth of one’s feelings is often conveyed through actions rather than direct speech. For example, cooking meals for children or looking after their daily needs are seen as expressions of love, without needing to say "I love you." This unspoken understanding between family members forms an implicit bond, where actions speak louder than words.
2. Direct vs. Indirect Expression
In contrast, Western cultures, particularly in the United States, often encourage the direct expression of emotions through language. It is common in many American families for individuals to express their love verbally, with phrases like "I love you" being frequently used, especially between parents and children. Western cultural norms tend to emphasize the explicit expression of feelings, where verbal acknowledgment is important for affirming emotional bonds.
3. Cultural Differences
Eddie’s statement, "We don’t need to say 'I love you,' it’s clear from a glance," reflects the Chinese cultural approach to emotional expression within families. For Chinese families, the unspoken understanding and actions often carry more weight than verbal affirmations. This cultural difference also highlights how family members in Chinese households show love through their behavior, while in Western cultures, verbal expressions of love hold greater significance.
“他们还是小孩子，不要讲性”。【反映中国人羞于谈性的观念】
“他们还是小孩子，不要讲性”这一句反映了许多文化中对性教育的敏感态度，尤其是在孩子和青少年成长过程中。这个观点常见于一些传统的文化背景中，尤其是在亚洲、拉丁美洲等地区，父母和社会普遍认为，性是一个成人话题，不适合在未成年人面前谈论。这种文化观念背后有一个核心的想法：保护孩子的纯真和天真，不希望他们过早接触可能影响他们心理发展和情感世界的敏感话题。
在电影《初来乍到》中，我们可以看到这种文化冲突的体现。影片讲述了一位越南裔美国人妈妈和她的儿子以及儿子的朋友们之间的互动。母亲对儿子的性教育持保守态度，她认为孩子不应过早接触这些话题，而应保持天真。她的态度反映了很多移民家庭中父母对新文化的适应和对原生文化传统的坚持。她不愿让儿子接触“成人世界”的复杂性问题，因为她担心这会破坏孩子的纯洁性。与此同时，电影中的其他角色，尤其是美国本地的孩子，则更多地暴露于开放的性别讨论和性文化中，造成了文化碰撞和误解。
这种文化现象的背后，是对儿童心理发展、社会责任和文化价值的不同看法。在一些文化中，性教育往往被视为对儿童成长的干扰，而在其他文化中，性教育则被认为是帮助孩子理解自己身体、情感和社会关系的重要部分。理解这种现象，我们需要意识到不同文化中关于儿童保护、家庭教育和社会开放度的差异。
The phrase “They are still kids, don't talk about sex” reflects the sensitive attitude toward sex education in many cultures, especially during the growth and development of children and teenagers. This perspective is common in more traditional cultural settings, particularly in regions such as Asia and Latin America, where parents and society generally believe that sex is an adult topic and should not be discussed in front of minors. The core idea behind this cultural belief is to protect the innocence and purity of children, avoiding introducing sensitive topics that could affect their psychological development and emotional world.
In the movie Fresh Off the Boat, we can see this cultural conflict unfold. The film tells the story of a Vietnamese-American mother and her son, along with his friends. The mother holds a conservative view on sex education, believing that children should not be exposed to such topics too early in life and should remain innocent. Her attitude reflects the struggle of immigrant families trying to adapt to a new culture while maintaining the traditions of their native culture. She is hesitant to allow her son to be exposed to the complexities of the "adult world," fearing it might taint his purity. Meanwhile, other characters, particularly the local American kids, are more open to discussions of gender and sexuality, leading to cultural clashes and misunderstandings.
Behind this cultural phenomenon lies a difference in views on child psychological development, social responsibility, and cultural values. In some cultures, sex education is often seen as an interference with children's growth, while in others, it is considered an important part of helping children understand their bodies, emotions, and social relationships. To fully grasp this phenomenon, we must recognize the differences in how various cultures approach child protection, family education, and social openness.
Eddie想买电玩，认为买电玩的花费不足为题，Louis表示这就是世界最强国的消极一面，让孩子们以为他们可以不用工作就能得到他们想要的，而Louis的爸爸让他为了每一分钱都努力工作，如果想要钱，得自己去赚。【反映出中国人勤劳淳朴的传统美德】
Eddie的爸爸妈妈一个唱红脸一个唱白脸教育孩子。【“一个唱红脸一个唱白脸”比喻在解决矛盾冲突的过程中，一个充当友善或令人喜爱的角色，即正面角色；另一个充当严厉或令人讨厌的角色，即反面角色。 “红脸”和“白脸”的表述源自于京剧中的脸谱。在京剧脸谱中，红色代表忠勇侠义，多为正面角色；白色则充当的是典型的反面角色。“一个唱红脸一个唱白脸”是中国传统家庭的教育方式之一，是指一个采取严厉的方式管教，另一个采取温和的方式管教，都是为了达到同一教育目的，宽严相济，软硬兼施。】
Eddie的母亲希望Eddie做一个乖乖的中国小孩，用功学习，拉小提琴，不要听Hiphop。【传统中国家庭的父母希望自己孩子学习的艺术是经典主流的，观念更为保守，不容易接受新兴、潮流的作品，像Hiphop这种说唱潮流艺术常不能被接受，往往会认为是不务正业的人所喜爱的】
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie的母亲希望他成为一个乖乖的中国小孩，按部就班地学习、拉小提琴，避免接触一些“西方”或“次文化”的事物，如嘻哈音乐（Hiphop）。这一文化现象反映了很多移民家庭中父母对孩子教育的期望以及他们对本土文化与主流文化之间的冲突与调和。特别是在传统的中国家庭中，父母常常希望孩子能够严格遵循社会规范，专注于学业和才艺的培养，以确保未来的成功。
中国传统文化强调家庭对孩子的深远影响，父母通常会为孩子选择他们认为“正确”的成长道路。在这种文化中，学业和传统艺术，如小提琴等古典音乐，往往被视为成功和社会认可的象征。而嘻哈音乐则代表了另一种文化取向，可能被视为不符合父母理想的“次文化”，甚至是一种反叛的象征。
Eddie的母亲所展示的这一态度，可以看作是对“跨文化适应”的一种反应。作为移民，她可能在美国社会中感受到一种文化认同的危机，希望儿子能够遵循传统的文化轨迹，而不是陷入美国社会中某些被视为不够正统或不符合传统价值的文化现象。她的期望体现了对于稳定性的追求，尤其是在移民身份和文化身份尚未完全融合的情况下。
然而，电影也展示了Eddie作为年轻一代如何在这两种文化之间挣扎。他对美国流行文化的认同与父母的期望产生冲突，这种文化碰撞不仅塑造了他的个人身份，也反映了移民家庭在适应新文化时面临的困难。
In the movie Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie's mother wants him to be a "good Chinese child," focusing on studying, playing the violin, and avoiding things like hip-hop music. This cultural phenomenon reflects the expectations of immigrant parents about their children's education and the cultural conflict between their native culture and mainstream American culture. In traditional Chinese families, parents often hope their children will follow societal norms and focus on academics and the development of traditional talents to ensure future success.
Chinese traditional culture emphasizes the significant role of family in shaping a child’s future, and parents typically choose what they believe to be the "right" path for their children. In this context, academic achievement and traditional arts, such as classical music like the violin, are seen as symbols of success and societal approval. On the other hand, hip-hop music represents a different cultural orientation, which might be viewed as "subculture" and even a form of rebellion that does not align with the parents’ ideal.
The attitude displayed by Eddie's mother can be seen as a response to "cross-cultural adaptation." As an immigrant, she might feel a cultural identity crisis within American society and hopes her son will follow the traditional cultural path rather than getting caught up in some aspects of American culture that she considers less proper or inconsistent with traditional values. Her expectations reflect a desire for stability, especially when the immigrant and cultural identities have not fully merged.
However, the film also shows Eddie, as part of the younger generation, struggling between these two cultures. His identification with American pop culture clashes with his parents' expectations, and this cultural collision not only shapes his personal identity but also reflects the challenges immigrant families face in adapting to a new culture.
有可以一起玩耍的中国伙伴了，可以互相有个照应了。【反映了中国人的集体观】
Louis想要开除怀亚特，跟他谈话时先说很喜欢他给牧场主的牧场餐厅带来的一切，表示怀亚特做得很好，有条不紊。【反映了中国人拒绝别人的方式：多采用委婉拒绝，意在保全双方的面子和友谊】怀亚特听了Louis的话后表示感谢，并说Louis的赞赏对他很重要。【中国是高语境文化，西方更多是低语境文化，怀亚特并没有读懂Louis的言外之意】
菲利普因为不想去看演唱会便自私地撇下Eddie，违背跟Eddie的约定，Eddie担心菲利普出事去找他也没能看演唱会，Eddie的母亲责备菲利普不是好的中国孩子。【反映出中国人信守承诺的传统美德，也体现出中国人照顾他人、顾及集体大局的美好品德】
说自己没带钱包来推脱给小费【西方社会有给小费的传统，中国社会没有】【反映了中国人拒绝别人的方式：多采用委婉拒绝，意在保全双方的面子和友谊】
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie一家人经历了许多文化冲突和适应的过程，其中包括一些细节表现了跨文化误解。例如，某人故意说自己没带钱包来推脱给小费，这种行为在不同文化中可能被解读为不同的方式。在一些文化中，给小费是对服务的认可和感激，是一种社会责任和礼节。然而，在某些情况下，特别是在对小费文化不够熟悉的移民或外来文化群体中，可能会出现这种推脱的情况，尤其是在初到新环境时。
在美国等国家，给小费被视为一种社会规范，尤其是在餐饮行业。服务员往往依赖小费来增加收入，因此给小费不仅是对服务的奖赏，也是维持社会礼仪的一部分。如果一个顾客故意说自己没带钱包来推脱给小费，这通常会被视为一种不礼貌或缺乏社会责任感的行为，甚至可能带来文化上的冲突。
从跨文化的角度看，这种现象反映了移民在新环境中面临的文化适应挑战。对于一些移民家庭来说，可能并不习惯给小费，尤其是在他们的母国小费并不常见或没有这种习惯。在这种文化背景下，给小费的习惯可能没有被视为一种必要的社交行为，因此，当移民进入小费文化的社会时，他们可能会因为缺乏这种行为规范而产生误解。
在《初来乍到》中，Eddie的家庭通过逐渐适应美国的文化，面临的这种小费文化差异显现了他们与美国主流社会之间的文化差距，并通过一系列幽默的情节呈现了这种跨文化的挑战。
In the movie Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie’s family goes through many cultural conflicts and adaptation processes, with some details reflecting cross-cultural misunderstandings. For example, saying that one didn't bring their wallet to avoid tipping might be interpreted differently in various cultures. In some cultures, tipping is seen as a sign of appreciation for service and a social obligation. However, in some cases, especially for immigrants or cultural groups unfamiliar with the tipping culture, such a response might occur, particularly when first arriving in a new environment.
In countries like the United States, tipping is considered a social norm, especially in the service industry. Service workers often rely on tips to supplement their income, so tipping is not only a reward for service but also part of maintaining social etiquette. If a customer deliberately claims not to have their wallet to avoid tipping, it is usually seen as impolite or lacking in social responsibility, and it could lead to cultural conflict.
From a cross-cultural perspective, this phenomenon reflects the challenges immigrants face when adapting to a new environment. For some immigrant families, tipping might not be a common practice in their home country or may not be viewed as a necessary social behavior. In such cultural contexts, tipping might not have been considered an essential social custom, so when immigrants enter a tipping culture society, they might misunderstand or fail to follow the norm.
In Fresh Off the Boat, the cultural differences in tipping are humorously depicted as Eddie’s family gradually adjusts to American culture, highlighting the cultural gap between them and mainstream American society and showcasing the challenges of cross-cultural adaptation.
妈妈选择了家庭而不是事业。【反映了传统中国人重视家庭、重视子女，全家以家庭和子女为核心的家庭观和子女观，属于集体主义导向】
基佬【现代中西方的同性恋文化在法律、民众接受度等方面存在明显差异，西方的包容性更强、可接受程度更高】
中国文化里的数字迷信。【反映了中国人的迷信思想】
在中国文化中，数字迷信是一种普遍存在的现象，尤其是在生活、婚姻、健康、数字运用等方面，人们通常会对一些特定的数字有特殊的看法。例如，"4"被视为不吉利的数字，因为它与"死"（死四音相同）发音相近，而"8"则被认为是吉利的数字，因为它发音与"发"同音，象征着财富和好运。在中国社会中，许多人会避开某些数字，特别是在选择房屋、车辆或电话号码时，避免与不吉利的数字相关联。
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie的家人和其他中国移民有时会因这些数字迷信的影响而表现得特别谨慎。例如，当Eddie的父母在决定某个家庭事务、选择日期或购买物品时，他们可能会刻意回避"4"这个数字，而选择"8"或者其他被认为幸运的数字。这种文化现象反映了中国人对命运、运势、吉凶的关注，以及对幸福、平安和成功的渴望。
这种数字迷信现象的背后是中国传统文化中对命运、因果报应、生活秩序等的深刻信仰。在中国文化中，数字不仅仅是一种数学概念，它们往往被赋予了某种象征意义和心理预期。数字迷信不仅影响人们的日常生活，还会影响商业活动、政治决策以及人际关系。
In Chinese culture, numerology is a widespread phenomenon, especially when it comes to everyday life, marriage, health, and the use of numbers. Certain numbers are often viewed with special significance. For instance, the number "4" is considered unlucky because its pronunciation sounds like "death," while the number "8" is viewed as auspicious because it sounds like "wealth" or "prosperity." In Chinese society, people tend to avoid numbers with negative connotations, especially when making decisions about housing, vehicles, or phone numbers.
In the movie Fresh Off the Boat, we can see how Chinese immigrants are influenced by numerological beliefs. Eddie’s family and other Chinese characters might be particularly cautious when making certain family decisions, choosing dates, or purchasing items based on these beliefs. For example, they might deliberately avoid the number "4" and opt for a more lucky number like "8." This cultural phenomenon reflects the Chinese people’s deep-rooted beliefs in fate, karma, destiny, and order in life, as well as their desires for happiness, safety, and success.
Behind this numerological phenomenon is a deeply ingrained aspect of Chinese traditional culture that regards numbers not just as mathematical concepts but as symbols with psychological expectations and meanings. Numerology beliefs not only affect everyday life but also play a role in business activities, political decisions, and interpersonal relationships.
奶奶最迷信，从来不面朝北，认为玉能辟邪。【中国人对方位朝向的迷信，迷信认为玉能辟邪】
在中国传统文化中，迷信和风水观念占据着重要的地位，尤其是在长辈和老一辈人身上，这些信仰往往会深深影响到他们的日常生活和行为习惯。例如，许多人相信面朝北不吉利，认为北方代表着阴冷、死气，因此避免将自己的床铺或座位朝北。而“玉能辟邪”的信仰，则源于中国古代的传统观念，认为玉石具有净化心灵、驱除邪气的作用。很多人佩戴玉饰物或将玉石摆放在家中，以求平安、健康和好运。
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie的奶奶就展现了这种传统的迷信观念。例如，她不愿意面朝北睡觉，认为那样会带来不吉利，甚至会在家中摆放玉石，认为它能够驱邪避灾。这种行为表现了她对中国传统文化的深厚信仰，同时也体现了代际之间的文化差异。Eddie的母亲可能不完全认同这些迷信，但她仍然尊重母亲的习惯，而Eddie作为年轻一代，对这些信仰可能持怀疑态度，认为它们与现代生活没有太大关系。
从跨文化的角度来看，这种迷信信仰不仅是中国传统文化的一部分，也反映了不同文化中对命运、健康和保护的不同理解。在很多东方文化中，风水、玉石和其他物品的象征意义非常重要，而在西方文化中，这些观念可能被视为过时或迷信。因此，移民家庭中的不同代际成员常常会面临文化认同的冲突，尤其是在老一辈坚持传统文化观念，而年轻一代更倾向于接受现代科学和理性思维时，这种文化差异便显得尤为突出。
In traditional Chinese culture, superstitions and beliefs in feng shui play an important role, especially among the older generations, and these beliefs often deeply influence their daily lives and habits. For example, many people believe it is unlucky to sleep with the head facing north, as the north is associated with coldness and death. The belief that jade can ward off evil comes from ancient Chinese traditions, where jade was thought to purify the mind and dispel negative energy. Many people wear jade jewelry or place jade objects in their homes for protection, health, and good fortune.
In the movie Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie’s grandmother exhibits these traditional superstitions. For instance, she refuses to sleep facing north because she believes it brings bad luck, and she keeps jade around the house to ward off evil spirits. This behavior reflects her deep belief in Chinese traditional culture, but it also highlights generational cultural differences. Eddie’s mother might not fully share these superstitions but still respects her mother’s practices, while Eddie, as part of the younger generation, might be skeptical of these beliefs, feeling they are irrelevant in modern life.
From a cross-cultural perspective, this phenomenon not only reflects a significant part of Chinese traditional culture but also demonstrates different cultural understandings of fate, health, and protection. In many Eastern cultures, concepts like feng shui, jade, and symbolic objects are highly significant, whereas in Western cultures, these beliefs may be seen as outdated or superstitious. Therefore, immigrant families often experience cultural identity conflicts, especially when older generations adhere to traditional cultural practices, while younger generations are more inclined toward modern scientific and rational thinking. This cultural gap is especially evident in such situations.
【中国人迷信认为玉能辟邪】
家长因为没有参与任何课外活动的志愿工作，导致学校经费大大削减，只能依靠家长来指导学校的课外活动【西方学校经费与家长的课外活动志愿工作相挂钩，并且学校有大量的课外活动需要家长协助完成；中国学校的经费大部分来自政府划拨，没有太多需要家长配合完成的课外活动】
“人生诫言，努力学习”【反映出中国人勤劳淳朴的传统美德】
被吃鸡爪吓一跳【中国人对美食十分热爱，有多种多样的烹饪方式，对所有事物也抱着物尽其用的心态，很多西方人不能接受的部位也能做为人们喜爱的美食】
在中国文化中，鸡爪（也叫鸡脚）是一种常见的美食，尤其在南方地区和一些地方的餐桌上，鸡爪被视为一道美味佳肴，常常用作小吃或者搭配其他菜肴。鸡爪被烹饪成多种形式，如红烧、泡椒、卤味等，具有独特的口感和风味。对很多中国人来说，鸡爪是一种极具传统特色的食品，是文化中的一部分。
然而，对于很多外国人，特别是没有接触过这种食物的西方人来说，鸡爪可能会显得有些陌生或令人不适。由于鸡爪的外观和质地与许多西方传统食物有所不同，尤其是其皮肤、骨头和肉质的组合，很多人可能会对这种食物产生排斥感，甚至被吓一跳。这种文化差异反映了不同文化在饮食习惯上的差异，某些食物在某些文化中被视为美味佳肴，而在其他文化中则可能被视为奇异或令人不适。
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie的家人作为移民面对美国文化的挑战时，常常在食物上遇到文化冲突。特别是在与美国朋友的互动中，Eddie的母亲有时会为他们准备一些中国传统食物，这其中就包括鸡爪。当美国的朋友看到这些食物时，他们往往表现出惊讶或不适，因为他们不习惯或难以接受这些在中国文化中常见的食物。这种现象不仅展示了移民适应新文化的挑战，也反映了文化间的饮食差异，尤其是面对跨文化的食物选择时，容易产生误解和不适。
In Chinese culture, chicken feet are a common delicacy, especially in southern regions and on some local dining tables. Chicken feet are considered a flavorful dish, often served as a snack or alongside other dishes. They are prepared in various styles, such as braised, pickled, or marinated, offering a unique texture and taste. For many Chinese people, chicken feet are a traditional food item, an integral part of the culture.
However, for many foreigners, especially Westerners who may not have encountered this type of food before, chicken feet can seem strange or off-putting. Due to their appearance and texture, which differ significantly from many traditional Western foods, particularly the combination of skin, bones, and meat, many people might find the food unsettling or might be shocked by it. This cultural difference reflects the varying food preferences across cultures, where some foods are considered delicacies in one culture but might be perceived as odd or unpleasant in another.
In Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie’s family, as immigrants, often faces cultural challenges, particularly when it comes to food. When preparing traditional Chinese dishes, including chicken feet, for their American friends, Eddie’s mother sometimes encounters surprised or uncomfortable reactions. Her American friends, unfamiliar with these foods, express astonishment or discomfort, as they are not accustomed to or open to accepting dishes that are commonplace in Chinese culture. This phenomenon not only highlights the challenges immigrants face in adapting to new cultural norms but also illustrates the food-related cultural differences, often leading to misunderstandings or discomfort when navigating cross-cultural food choices.
“无论如何我们都不会把老祖宗忘之脑后”【反映出中国人不忘本的传统观念，体现出倾向于过去的时间取向】
“无论如何我们都不会把老祖宗忘之脑后”这句话体现了中国文化中对传统和祖先的深厚敬意。在中国文化中，祖先崇拜是一种根深蒂固的信仰，许多家庭都会通过祭祖、传承家族历史等方式来表达对祖先的敬仰和感恩。这种文化现象反映了对家族和祖先的责任感，也体现了对传统文化的继承和尊重。许多人认为，祖先的教诲和智慧是他们生活的一部分，时刻影响着他们的行为和决策。
在电影《初来乍到》中，Eddie的家庭虽然身处异国，但依然深受中国传统文化的影响，尤其是在对祖先和家族历史的尊重上。Eddie的父母特别重视中国传统，尤其是尊重长辈和继承祖辈的价值观。尽管他们在美国生活，但他们并没有完全放弃这些传统，反而将其融入到自己的生活中，尝试在新环境中找到文化的平衡。
这句话也反映了许多移民家庭在跨文化适应中的一个重要方面：如何在新文化和传统文化之间找到平衡。对于Eddie的父母来说，尽管美国社会与中国社会在很多方面有很大不同，他们仍然强调继承和尊重传统，因为这对他们来说是一种文化身份的认同和情感上的寄托。在面对美国文化时，他们可能会感到有些困惑或不适应，但他们从不放弃对祖先和传统的尊重，这也是他们文化适应的一部分。
The phrase "No matter what, we will never forget our ancestors" reflects the deep respect for tradition and ancestors embedded in Chinese culture. Ancestor worship is a deeply rooted belief in China, where many families express reverence and gratitude toward their ancestors through rituals like ancestor worship and the passing down of family history. This cultural phenomenon reflects a sense of responsibility toward the family and ancestors, as well as the continuation and respect for traditional culture. Many people believe that the teachings and wisdom of their ancestors are an integral part of their lives, constantly influencing their behavior and decisions.
In Fresh Off the Boat, Eddie's family, despite living in a foreign country, is still deeply influenced by traditional Chinese culture, particularly in terms of respect for ancestors and family history. Eddie's parents place great emphasis on Chinese traditions, especially respecting elders and inheriting the values passed down by their ancestors. Although they live in America, they do not completely abandon these traditions but rather incorporate them into their lives, trying to find a cultural balance in the new environment.
This phrase also reflects an important aspect of cross-cultural adaptation for many immigrant families: how to balance new and traditional cultures. For Eddie’s parents, despite the significant differences between American and Chinese societies, they continue to emphasize the inheritance and respect for tradition because it represents their cultural identity and provides emotional support. When faced with American culture, they may feel confused or out of place, but they never give up their respect for their ancestors and traditions, which is also part of their process of cultural adaptation.
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2024年11月25日