The "V" Sign

rpcrowe

All over China you will see people, especially young people flashing the "V" sign with their fingers when being photographed. I wonder if this might be a residual from the habit of Richard Nixon to flash that sign to photographers and crowds. The Chinese just adore Nixon because of his influence in opening China to the West which has culminated in a freer life and higher standard of living. I shot these images on smoggy afternoon in Shanghai, April 2010.

1. Beautiful gal posing in a park...


2. No drab Mao suits for these young Chinese...


3. Double "V"...


4. Guy and his gal on the Bund... That's the city of Pudong across the river buried in the smog...

Homer

I find it interesting how unpopular presidents such as Nixon and LBJ are but how much of a positive effect they have around the world, to civil rights to lives of people on the other side of the world. Great photos.

bfjr

I think #4 is a good one.

I always thought that that was a Vulcan greeting

Pixoul

I looked this up a while ago.

The serious answer: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V_sign
The amusing answer: http://www.asian-central.com/stuffasianpeoplelike/2008/03/15/35-peace-sign/

michswiss

I'm doing a comprehensive survey including my work colleagues around the country and will report back to you once I have a definitive answer. I might even consider extending it to the full population. BUT! It might take me a while to poll all 1.3 billion, so don't expect an answer tomorrow.

I have a standing bet with a couple of Malaysian friends where I try to get their picture without the V and them not noticing. It's amazing what you can turn into a drinking game. :slosh

adbsgicom

Like your images!!!
It does solve the issue of what to do with the hands while posing...