Intimate China: The Chinese as I Have Seen Them

"Intimate China: The Chinese as I Have Seen Them" by Mrs. Archibald Little is a travel memoir written in the late 19th century. This work offers a firsthand account and personal reflections on the author's experiences during her time in China, detailing cultural observations and the richness of Chinese life. Through her narrative, Little aims to illuminate the everyday lives of Chinese people, moving beyond mere statistics and facts to provide a vivid, personal exploration of the places and customs she encountered. The opening of the memoir introduces the author’s arrival in Shanghai and her first impressions of both the city and its people. She describes the stark contrast between her tropical journey and the chilly atmosphere of Shanghai, painting a bustling scene filled with European influences alongside traditional Chinese elements. Detailing her initial experiences, Little expresses both excitement and disappointment, particularly in observing a muddier reality than the romanticized vision often associated with China. She captures the complex interplay of cultures, vibrant city life, and her interactions with the local populace, setting the stage for a rich exploration that promises to reveal the intricacies of Chinese society as she moves deeper into the country.