“啃老”背后的意义 - The Meaning Behind 'Relying on Parents' [HSK 7]

Chinese Short Dialogue | 听中文会话 | 中国語会話を聴く

陈智高 and 王明月 discuss the concept of young people 'relying on parents,' exploring the balance between self-discovery and social responsibility.

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《English Translation》

陈智高: 明月, I read an article today where Professor 梁永安 suggested that young people could 'rely on their parents' for a few years after graduation to explore themselves. What do you think of this idea?
王明月: Master, 'relying on parents' is traditionally seen as a negative term. How has it become something encouraged? But it seems like he’s not talking about lying flat passively but about self-exploration. That’s interesting.
陈智高: Indeed. Professor 梁永安 means that young people could take one or two years before starting work to understand the diversity of the world, explore their interests, and even reevaluate their life direction. It’s like giving young people a chance for a 'gap year.'
王明月: It sounds idealistic, but in reality, many people can’t afford to 'rely on their parents.' The financial pressure on families is too high. Isn’t 'relying on parents' irresponsible to the parents?
陈智高: Professor 梁永安 emphasizes that 'having the means' is key. If the family can afford it, this exploration isn’t necessarily wasting resources but rather an investment in long-term development. You know about Van Gogh, right? If his brother hadn’t supported him, he might not have had the chance to create so many masterpieces.
王明月: I see. But even so, how could parents easily accept this idea? In traditional views, young people should quickly find a job, get married, and buy a house after graduation to share the family’s burden.
陈智高: That’s a generational difference in mindset. The older generation focuses on 'settling down,' while young people lean more toward 'exploring the unknown.' Parents think more like farmers, valuing stability, while young people are more like explorers, craving adventure. This conflict is inevitable.
王明月: Master, does this 'exploration' really bring tangible benefits for the future? After all, after a few years, they might still fail to find a clear direction. Wouldn’t that be a waste of time?
陈智高: Not necessarily. Even if there’s no visible material return, the experiences and encounters along the way become spiritual wealth. As the saying goes, 'Read ten thousand books, travel ten thousand miles'—the journey itself is a form of growth.
王明月: Do you think this advice really applies to young people in China? After all, competition in society is so intense. If they don’t enter the workforce early, won’t they lose at the starting line?
陈智高: It depends on a person’s aspirations. 'Relying on parents' doesn’t mean being passive but rather building strength and finding one’s unique talents. Remember this: 'Live up to your potential.' Instead of rushing into a job you don’t like, it’s better to take more time to find your true passion.
王明月: Hearing you say this makes me reflect. Perhaps we’re too easily constrained by the 'social clock,' overlooking the possibilities of diverse choices.
陈智高: That’s good, 明月. The important thing is to learn how to balance personal ideals with social responsibilities. This isn’t just for