From the perspective of De Certeau, I believe that the practice of urban space in Hong Kong, especially against a backdrop of towering buildings, is a rewriting of the city’s text by every individual’s actions and choices. The high-density residential and commercial areas compel residents to find personalized ways to utilize limited spaces, such as rooftop gardens and corner shops, which are personal statements against standardized spaces. These seemingly trivial daily practices form the unique social texture and cultural landscape of Hong Kong.
Therefore, as a young person growing up in this city, I place great importance on those spatial practices often overlooked in daily life. These practices are not only survival strategies but also serve as bridges for dialogue between residents and the city, and between individuals and the community. They help me understand that a city is not just a collection of physical spaces but also a carrier of lifestyles, cultural identities, and collective memories.
In the alleys of Mong Kok, I have seen numerous graffiti that transform the atmosphere of the area, turning a mundane thoroughfare into a vibrant cultural hub, and expressing a sense of resident identity and community belonging. Hong Kong’s public spaces are often imbued with new social and cultural functions. I have attended several concerts and markets outside the Jienshan Bookstore, which allowed me to interact with citizens from diverse backgrounds, thus strengthening our sense of community identity.
Chen Haodong
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