Download the February 2020 issue of That's Shanghai here, or view it in your browser with Issuu here (VPN required). To download previous issues, click here.
Rats! They get a bad rep. While the term ‘rat race’ has negative connotations, when it comes to the Chinese Zodiac race they are first past the post (courtesy of a little trickery over the ol’ Ox). People born this year are thought to possess characteristics which are associated with rats, including intelligence, creativity, honesty, ambition and generosity.
Generosity? You may be skeptical, but studies have found that rats take care of injured and sick family and friends. And despite their reputation being in the gutter, they are also extremely clean animals, spending several hours a day grooming themselves and the others in their group.
Highly social, they sleep and play together, making ‘laughter’ sounds when they play. When referring to a group of rats, the collective noun is a ‘mischief of rats,’ and who doesn’t like a bit of mischief? Speaking of which, happy rats have been observed to chatter or grind their teeth, often accompanied by vibrating eyes – we’ve all been there after a few tequilas…
Without companionship, rats tend to become lonely and depressed. All very relatable. So don’t be too quick to judge our furry friends. And with that, all there is left is for me to wish you a very happy (and mischievous) Year of the Rat.
Xin nian kuai le!
Ned Kelly
Download the February 2020 issue of That's Shanghai here, or view it in your browser with Issuu here (VPN required). To download previous issues, click here.
0 User Comments