09 March 2013 ~ 1 Comment

Conversations 2013 #7: Are You Serious?

Misc.

The following conversation took place at a cafe in Yokohama between myself and a Japanese private student.

Student: how are you?
Me: I’m ok. My back hurts a little, though. How are you?
Student:I have ummm 肩こり.
Me: A shoulder ache?
Student: Yes. Japanese get this kind of pain often. Do Americans get 肩こり too?
Me: … (waiting for a sign she is pulling my leg…none was forthcoming)
Student: you know, a pain in this area… (she shows me her shoulder blades)
Me: Are you serious?
Student: Eeeee?
Me: sorry…日本人論 (nihonjinron) still catches me off guard sometimes. Ummm, yes Americans get shoulder aches, too.
Student: 日本人論？
Me: yeah…The idea that Japanese are unique humans.
Student: ah!
Me: Yeah, (I point to the glass of water on the table) imagine if I said Americans like ice water. Do Japanese like ice water, too? What would you think?
Student:…
Me: Exactly!

Loco

PS: And if you haven’t read Hi! My Name is Loco and I am a Racist yet, what are you waiting for? A personal invitation? Check it out! It’s available in paperback and E-book version here.

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  • http://badboyinjapan.blogspot.jp/ Chris

    I have heard this same thing b4 from my students. Was it on a variety show with some too famous doc saying it was true? where tf did this come from? Next time tell it comes from using chopsticks….and wait…see if she even buys it for a second then teach her what “I’m fuckin’ wit’ you!!” means ;)