Chinese Fantasy
-
When Tradition Bends: The Allure of “Dark Arts” Among Modern Chinese
The hashtag “#EvilCultivation#” has exploded on social media, racking up over 450 million views. Originating from Chinese fantasy novels, “Evil Cultivation” refers to unconventional, often dark, self-improvement methods. Now, it’s a playful trend focused on simplifying life, from unorthodox cooking hacks using beverages and rice cookers to bizarre dieting and fashion shortcuts. While offering instant gratification, these methods face criticism for potentially sacrificing long-term well-being for quick results, reflecting a broader societal anxiety and the youth’s search for achievable goals.
