Proud and serene : sketches from Thailand

Abstract

It is all too seldom that the Western world produces someone with the critical objectivity, the insight into human nature, the ability to communicate, and the involvement with his fellow man to write revealingly about the Eastern world. In these sketches the author introduces samlor drivers and doctors, servant boys and teachers, village farmers and government officials. Through his sympathetic account of the thoughts, background, and way of life of each of these people, he conveys something, too, about the heart of Thailand, about the similarities and differences in the cultures of East and West. Those with little knowledge of Thailand will be enchanted at the portrayal of customs, beliefs, and environment vastly different from our own; those who already know and love the Thai people will recognise in these pages the same gaiety and charm which endear the country to the foreign visitor. The author's deep knowledge of Thai culture and institutions ensures that the background to these sketches is authentic. However, they were written primarily to be enjoyed, as well as to enlarge sympathy and understanding - the author has described them as hors d'oeuvres for those who are about to visit Thailand or study it seriously. Show more