In the serene town of Dali, nestled in the picturesque Yunnan province, tranquility is a commodity more valuable than gold. In a recent article titled 宁静无价 | 事关告别 (The Priceless Quiet | A Matter of Farewell), author Yang Xiao explores the delicate balance between the peace of the town and the influx of tourists that threaten to disturb it.
Understanding Noise and Its Impact
Yang begins by reflecting on the nature of noise and its role in our lives. While understanding noise might offer insights into our daily existence, it doesn’t necessarily make us more accepting of it. Often, the opposite is true. External silence, he writes, invites us to open our senses and reconnect with the world around us.
In Dali, the quietude is so profound that it beckons visitors to immerse themselves in the natural symphony of the environment. The rustling leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the gentle lapping of water are music to the ears when one is truly present.
The Inversion of Peace and Price
However, this peace comes at a price — quite literally. The level of tranquility in Dali is inversely proportional to the cost of accommodations. Friends of Yang reveal that their民宿 (holiday rental) increases prices twice during the peak summer season. The increase in tourists, especially during the holidays, brings an unwelcome surge in noise.
Yang recounts his own experience returning to Dali after a brief absence. The once peaceful小区 (residential compound) was now filled with the sounds of children playing and adults conversing loudly. The once serene environment had been transformed into a cacophony of noise.
The Battle Against Noise
The struggle against noise pollution is a universal challenge. In Dali, the issue is exacerbated by short-term rentals, where neighbors often find themselves at odds with the temporary inhabitants above them. The article describes a scenario where a father’s loud reprimand of his young daughter is followed by a symphony of cries and the sound of things being thrown. The result is a game of cat and mouse, with neighbors employing various methods to combat the noise.
From sound insulation to noise-cancelling devices, the lengths to which people go to maintain peace in their homes are astonishing. Some have even resorted to constructing soundproof booths in their bedrooms and installing新风系统 (new air systems) for better breathing. For those less fortunate, the only option is to confront the source of the noise, leading to prolonged and often futile disputes.
Psychological Coping Mechanisms
In this era of noise sensitivity, psychological coping mechanisms have become increasingly popular. One method involves separating the noise from negative emotions. By viewing the noise as a natural occurrence, akin to the rising and setting of the sun or the blooming and fading of flowers, one can begin to tolerate it.
Yang suggests imagining the source of the noise as something benign, like a playful African elephant rather than a menacing creature. This psychological trick can help reduce the frustration and make the noise more bearable.
The Future of Dali’s Peace
As Dali continues to attract tourists from around the world, the question of how to maintain its peaceful ambiance becomes increasingly pressing. The balance between economic growth and the preservation of tranquility is a delicate one. For now, the town remains a haven for those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
In conclusion, Yang’s article serves as a poignant reminder of the value of silence in an increasingly noisy world. As Dali grapples with the challenges of tourism and noise pollution, it remains a testament to the timeless appeal of peace and quiet.
Views: 0