“Sang Maang” Guangdong

“Sang maang” is a phrase frequently heard in Guangdong Province. Cantonese speakers are fond of “sang maang” things. “Sang maang” seems to have become a distinctive trait of the contemporary Cantonese spirit, and “sang maang Guangzhou” is a vivid description of Guangdong’s cultural aesthetic in the new era.

In mandarin Chinese, the character for “maang” means ferocity. But in Cantonese, the word usually refers to power. “Sang maang” is used to describe someone or something that is energetic and often catches others by surprise. Many Chinese people regard Cantonese food as the best, and barely-out-of-the-water seafood is a specialty in Guangdong. Even the Chinese folk lion dance during festivals has a north-south distinction. The southern lion in Guangdong Province wiggles its whiskers and swivels its eyes left and right. The dragon dancers jump up and down and top of each other to perform the traditional custom of cai qing, literally meaning “plucking the greens,” whereby the lion eats auspicious green lettuce either hung from a pole or placed on a table. Unlike the majestic-looking and “sang maang” southern lions, northern lions perform with a starkly contrasting magnificent elegance while they roll into a ball and wag their tails.

“Sang maang” is the Cantonese standard for seafood and lion dances. In fact, it affects opinions on almost every object and even thought and action. Most Cantonese tend to think flexibly and take quick action.

In Guangdong, “sang maang” has rich meanings and profound historical traditions. Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong Province, has been a commercial hub for more than 1,000 years. Honesty, integrity, and a pragmatic approach are essential traits to do business. Therefore, “pragmatism” has been passed down as part of the Cantonese spirit. Huineng (638-713), a towering figure of Zen Buddhism, was a Cantonese speaker who advocated pragmatism. Being practical-minded, the Cantonese also highlight innovation. The Cantonese idiom “ding ngaang soeng” (to stick to one’s course of action) mirrors the enterprising, bold, confident, and optimistic Cantonese style.

Nothing is more practical than the urge to eat. Cantonese people make congee by mixing chicken, beef, and pork with ginger, onions, vegetables, and other ingredients. A qualitative change occurs when different proteins are boiled down. Congee composed of “transformed” foods is a favorite product of enterprising Guangdong chefs. The delicious congee includes the essence of several types of protein. The imaginative Cantonese elegantly name it Jidi porridge (No. 1 scholar congee). Jidi porridge integrates “pragmatism and innovation” into one bowl of congee, which is representative of the Cantonese spirit.

“Sang maang” also refers to the tolerance and innovation of Cantonese. Throughout history, Guangdong has absorbed traits of the traditional culture of China’s Central Plains. The province is home to ports along the ancient Maritime Silk Road and one of the first places in China to be exposed to modern advanced Western thoughts and cultures. Thus, Cantonese inclusiveness and tolerance for diversity formed as the region served as a bridge between China and the world. For instance, Guangdong artists use violins to accompany Cantonese Opera, combining the graceful timbre of the violin with the elegant melody of traditional Chinese opera.

Moreover, “sang maang” is used to describe the active participation and dedication of Cantonese people. Since the late Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Cantonese people came into closer contact with Western ideas and became increasingly aware of the people’s value and responsibilities. Since China’s reform and opening up in the late 1970s, Guangdong has learned from foreign experience and management mechanisms. Today, Cantonese actively participate and pioneer in social undertakings, such as launching the mayor’s hotline. Locals take social responsibility seriously. Those able to get well-off first recognize their social responsibilities and move to fulfil them. Administrative departments draw on the wisdom of the people and work together to ensure everyone lives comfortably.

Cantonese enjoy life and maintain particular tastes in food. They enjoy having tea in teahouses, playing chess in the streets, and singing in the shades of banyan trees. They develop a relaxed attitude towards life and pursue an elegant and cheerful lifestyle.

“Sang maang Guangdong” has a profound meaning. The spirit of pragmatism, inclusiveness, innovation, dedication, participation, and love of life has been paved into every street in the southern province. During the past century, Guangdong twice served as a historical “engine.” It was one of the cradles for China’s new-democratic revolution (1919-1949), and decades later, it ignited China’s economic development explosion. History has created a wealth of Cantonese opportunities, and the “sang maang” traits of the Cantonese people ensure that they will shoulder every historic responsibility.