Sights like these are still common in Hà Nội but for how long? VNA/VNS Photo
Alex Reeves @afreeves23
And we’re back, just like that. Two weeks have flown by, and while my hand remains on hiatus, my mind still buzzes with ideas and observations from another fortnight in Hà Nội. The immobilisation of a writer’s hand might seem like a nightmare, but it has granted me pause to think and reflect rather than diving headfirst into my usual disorganised discourse.
Being momentarily distanced from the process has sharpened my focus on the narratives I regularly chase and those I've yet to explore. This period of involuntary reflection leads here, where facilitated by voice-to-text technology, I am still able to muse on the cusp of the next leap in technological evolution: AI. It poses an ethical quandary for writers everywhere: does leaning on this technology dilute the authenticity we owe ourselves and, crucially, our readers? And what place does this debate hold in a column dedicated to the ‘expatriate’ experience in Việt Nam?
It's not my place to preach on the ethics of journalism or city planning. However, two weeks without writing have prompted a deeper appreciation for the muse that is Hà Nội. This city really is an endless fount of inspiration. Where others might struggle with writer's block, Hà Nội generously offers a sensory overload of potential perspectives to explore, from its vibrant streets to the ever-evolving cultural and regulatory landscape, we are fortunate to call it home.
Hà Nội, in its essence, is a testament to tradition's resilience in the face of relentless modernisation. It's a city where old ways aren't merely preserved; they're celebrated. Amid the global rush towards efficiency, Hà Nội cherishes the craftsmanship of handmade furniture on Đê La Thành Street, the artistry of hand-cut noodles and the human connections that flourish beyond the impersonal reach of apps.
The city's lifeblood flows through its ancient streets like the traditional bia (beer) at its many hơi’s (beer stands). Here, a restaurant's daily provisions are sourced from a butcher at 6am, who in turn, saw a farmer at 4am, a supply chain uninterested in cutting corners for the sake of convenience, choosing instead to share the collective bounty.
As the city navigates its path towards technological integration, one wonders if these advancements will enhance the city's charm or compromise its traditions. From my slightly selfish and privileged vantage point, I resist change, but still it's an honour to witness this remarkable journey, observing as the city contemplates its future shape amidst inevitable change.
Just as my hand will get better, Hà Nội’s Infrastructure will need to, and the city's stewards will face choices about the preservation of its cultural heritage and the allure of modernisation. As I anticipate returning to the tactile pleasure of finger meets keyboard, Hà Nội stands at a crossroads, deliberating what it wishes to carry forward into its next chapter.
In the end, both I as a writer and the city I cherish are united in our quest for authenticity during transformation. As Hà Nội changes, I hope it keeps reminding me that progress need not come at the expense of the ‘imperfections’ which make it unique. - VNS
OVietnam