The following is a passage from My Country and My People by Chinese writer Lin Yutang. In this book, Lin takes it on himself to explain the complexities of China, its people and their culture to the world at large. He explores several aspects of the Chinese character, often making comparisons with other countries. This passage is taken from Chapter IX The Art of Living, Part III Eating and Drinking. Lin discusses the Chinese attitudes to food and contrasts it with those of the West.

    下文是节选自中国作家林语堂《吾国与吾民》的片段 ......