- The extent to which variety manifests itself in American supermarkets must be a sign of deep-seated neuroses. How many flavor-colors of Gatorade do you need? There's only one available in Japan, and while it surprised me at first, I haven't felt deprived. The only vitamin drinks in Japan give you all the vitamin C you could need; in the US, there's a liquid supplement with the vitamins and herbs you need for whatever particular weakness you see in yourself, at the moment. And don't even get me started on the varieties of bread.
It's about the need to build your identity from the particulars of your individual existence. I drink lime Gatorade or red things (because red is my favorite color) or drink a different flavor every time (in order to avoid ruts or a product-based identity-- but this very avoidance becomes an identity). Certainly, you can get some of your identity from brand loyalty (or lack thereof), but you're more likely to select a brand that provides options for further refinements of identity.
In Japan, identity comes more from your social relationships: where you fit in the web. Brand-interest has more to do with belonging than with individual identity. All the office ladies buy Louis Vuitton.
- When I was flying out of JFK, I got really stressed when I couldn't see a person to check my bag right away after I'd used the electronic check-in console. This was probably because, in Japan, customer service is important enough that, for instance, in convenience stores, they'll open up a new register if there are two people waiting in line, and because there are usually organized and obvious lines for any kind of waiting you have to do-- even for the train.
- Wearing shoes in the house is just silly. It means you have to clean the floor more often.
- Mood:
tired - Soundscape:Point Pleasant
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qassandra
