I have never been able to answer the question "Where are you from?" It seems a bit rude (and a bit stupid!) to say "dunno", so at least when talking to Americans, it seems quite acceptable to say "I'm from Europe".
That much I know. I may have gone to school in Holland, gone to university in Germany, but hang on, also in England... I may have Hungarian ancestors, be married to an Englishman.... but it all sounds too complicated, and let's face it - not that interesting. So saying "I am European" says it all, and as far as I'm concerned, says it best.
That much I know. I may have gone to school in Holland, gone to university in Germany, but hang on, also in England... I may have Hungarian ancestors, be married to an Englishman.... but it all sounds too complicated, and let's face it - not that interesting. So saying "I am European" says it all, and as far as I'm concerned, says it best.
Very interesting I can relate on a smaller geographical scale. My parents were in the air force so we constantly moved around England. There is no single part of the UK that I feel I originate from. When up north I'm treated as a southerner and when down south asked where I'm from up north! London feels most like a home to me probably because no one really cares where you are from in London!
ReplyDeleteWhere abouts in Holland did you live?
Margit! Great first post! I know where you are coming from (well, all over) and actually it Is interesting
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments and encouragement! I think nowadays almost everybody will be changing places in their lives - not necessarily through choice, but mainly we are forced to by work. The experience of cultural disorientation, adaptation, or rejection is, I think, a fascinating journey in itself.
ReplyDeleteI am from the UK and there are no other ancestral countries in recent past .... but I too consider myself European!
ReplyDeleteBut tell me about my kids - 2x grandparents from India of Persian desent, born in UK.
Perhaps the geography of where you are from is not as important as the cultural and social references you have throughout your life ?
I find it strange that when Brits talk about Europe, they excludes themselves. Never could quite work that one out.
ReplyDeleteWelcome to blogging, watch out it can take over your life (says she who's writing chapter 26 of a blog sequel that was meant to be in two parts).
Helena
xx
I see you've done it! But where were you born? Looking forward to more posts. All the best, CFR
ReplyDeleteGreat first post Margit! I often get asked the same question too when my husband and I travel, and the big dilemma is - should we say we're from Minnesota? Or should we say we're from India? I guess the question you raised is something most of the children in the next generation will be dealing with - what with global careers and the lack of boundaries, in shifting continents and countries for work or pleasure.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to more posts!
Thank you so much, crimeficreader,Helena, Anonymous, and Sabera - I think it's great that we all feel a little bit "displaced", yet have a feeling of belonging. Just the one would be very alienating - just the other would mean we'd get a little bit too cosy...
ReplyDeleteWell done hinny, the nation becomes a nation of bloggers with worthwhile items!
ReplyDeleteKeep it up!
i love reading your notes and i am looking forward meetung you in person one day my dear~
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