cheena new year

Just when our ears were recovering from an overdose of Christmas carols, retailers began the second volley of aural assaults – this time, it’s Chinese New Year songs. Do they not have any mercy?

I don’t understand the rationale behind playing Chinese New Year songs. Do retailers actually think they make for a more conducive shopping experience? Do they really think we buy more stuff when our ears are constantly being bombarded by refrains of irritatingly-cheery kids singing about bees plucking pollen? On the contrary – it probably encourages destruction of the shop, if you ask me.

As if those songs weren’t irritating enough, there are also nosey relatives to consider. You know what I’m talking about – if you’re single, all your aunts are going to ask when you’re getting married. If you’re married and childless, they’ll ask when they can expect to see kids. If you already have a kid, they’ll ask if you’re planning for the next one yet. It never ends!

Of course you might argue that they’re just showing concern, but surely that concern can be shown in other ways? Like… Oh I don’t know, a larger red packet perhaps?

It is little wonder, then, that many people take the opportunity to escape Singapore over the CNY period for a break abroad. I’d do the same if I could, but unfortunately, as the only son, I feel a sense of responsibility to visit relatives. Bah.

Interestingly enough, the first day of Chinese New Year this year also happens to be Valentine’s Day. That opens up a whole new can of worms for those who celebrate both occasions – do we have dinner with the family or do we try to book a table somewhere for a nice romantic dinner with the girlfriend?

Thankfully I won’t have that problem, since my girlfriend will be one of the people seeking refuge overseas from nosey relatives. If you have to make that choice… Well, good luck. You’re going to need it!