To All Appearances A Lady - University of British Columbia
To All Appearances A Lady - University of British Columbia
To All Appearances A Lady - University of British Columbia
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Yue Ming Chen<br />
The Pride <strong>of</strong> Illiteracy<br />
He, born in northern China<br />
Is now a sight-seer<br />
In Canton, in southern China.<br />
She, from western Canada<br />
Is now a traveller<br />
In Quebec, in eastern Canada.<br />
Although well-educated, he<br />
Never takes pride in himself.<br />
Although well-informed, she<br />
Is never proud <strong>of</strong> herself.<br />
Are they both modest to people?<br />
And towards knowledge humble?<br />
Now, when Mandarin becomes useless,<br />
He is completely illiterate (at least half so?),<br />
No matter how familiar he is with the strokes.<br />
Now, when English turns futile,<br />
She is entirely unlettered (at least half so?),<br />
No matter how acquainted she is with the letters.<br />
Do they mind<br />
If the locals take them for low or high?<br />
Haughtily they refuse to see<br />
A truth that they won't admit:<br />
Such illiteracy will lead them<br />
<strong>To</strong> a life <strong>of</strong> disharmony.<br />
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