Chinese Whispers What’s in a name? Peter Hessler on what English names can reveal about China
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Dec 23, 2024 
In this engaging discussion, Peter Hessler, an award-winning journalist and author known for his insightful explorations of China, delves into the quirks of English names chosen by Chinese individuals. He explores how these names reflect aspirations and historical ties, revealing deep cultural insights. With humor and anecdotes, they touch on the transformative journey of a young farm boy and the impact of globalization on identity. The talk includes fascinating stories about the influence of basketball culture on naming trends, bridging East and West in modern Chinese society.
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Cindy Yu's Name
- Cindy Yu's English name comes from her mother's American boss's admiration for Cindy Crawford.
- This naming occurred during Cindy's birth while her mother worked at an American export-import company.
Class and English Names
- In 1990s China, English names were more prevalent among educated, urban individuals with foreign contacts.
- Hessler observed this correlation among his students, whose unusual names reflected varying degrees of Western influence.
Adoption of Last Names
- Some students started adopting last names, creating combinations like William Foster Jefferson and Mo Money.
- This practice arose from a desire for name parity with their teacher, Peter Hessler.
