BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY | Vu Tu Long | TEDxBUV

Key Concepts

• Cultural Identity & Preservation: The importance of maintaining and understanding Vietnamese cultural values, traditions, and history.
• Generational Differences: Contrasting experiences and perspectives between older and younger generations in Vietnam, particularly regarding access to education and appreciation of national history.
• Patriotism & National Pride: The expression of love for the country, especially highlighted by recent national celebrations and the engagement of youth in cultural events.
• The Value of Tradition: Recognizing the significance of ancestral customs, family values, and historical lessons.
• The Power of Music & Arts: The role of music, film, and other art forms in fostering cultural understanding and national unity.
• Intergenerational Connection: The importance of dialogue and learning between different generations.

The Enduring Spirit of Vietnamese Culture: A Reflection on Tradition, Youth, and National Identity

Introduction & Gratitude

The speaker began by expressing gratitude to the organizers for the invitation and acknowledging the audience as individuals deeply involved in the cultural and artistic fields. He humbly admitted not being a traditional orator but emphasized his decades of experience within the Vietnamese cultural landscape. He noted the significance of the venue, recognizing it as a nurturing ground for talent over its 5+ year history.

National Celebrations & Youth Engagement (2024-2025)

The speaker highlighted the recent surge in national pride and cultural awareness spurred by significant anniversaries – the 50th anniversary of national reunification (April 30th) and the 85th anniversary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam’s National Day. He observed that these events have allowed younger generations to connect with the heroic history of their ancestors, experiencing the spirit of patriotism firsthand. He specifically mentioned the impact of films like “Mưa Rồng” (Dragon Rain) and “Tử Chiến Trên Không” (Air Battle) in conveying the sacrifices made for peace.

The Rise of Contemporary Culture & Youthful Expression

He enthusiastically acknowledged the vibrant contemporary cultural scene, particularly the popularity of concerts and performances by artists like Ngàn Trong Gai, C2, Xinh, and Đẹp. He saw these events as more than just entertainment, but as spaces where young people encounter values previously confined to textbooks or media reports. He noted the accessibility and immersive nature of these experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural significance.

A Contrast in Educational Opportunities

The speaker drew a stark contrast between the educational opportunities available to his generation and those of today. He described the intense competition and privilege associated with university admission in his youth (born 1952), recalling the saying “Cổng trường đại học xa vời vợi, cổng trường đại học cao vời vợi, 10 đứa trèo, chín đứa rơi” (The university gate is far, far away, the university gate is high, high above, ten climb, nine fall). He contrasted this with the current abundance of choices and the success of Vietnamese students studying abroad and returning to contribute to the nation.

Core Vietnamese Values & National Character

He asserted that despite physical stature, the Vietnamese people possess inherent virtues – hospitality, humanity, affection, diligence, and a love of learning – deeply ingrained in their national character. He emphasized that these qualities were not solely products of modern education, citing examples of ancestors studying by lamplight and sharing stories of national heroes like Kim Đồng and Mạc Thị Bưởi. He stressed that these historical figures and values remain relevant today.

Patriotism & The Inevitability of Love for the Homeland

The speaker passionately defended the patriotism of the younger generation, stating, “Đừng bảo thế hệ trẻ ngày nay các bạn không yêu quê hương đất nước… yêu chứ yêu lắm” (Don’t say today’s youth don’t love their homeland… they do, they love it very much). He argued that love for one’s country is inherent and unavoidable, shaped by family, friends, community, and tradition. He asked the audience how many had a quê (homeland/native place), emphasizing the importance of roots.

The Significance of Tết & Cultural Rituals

He underscored the profound significance of Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), particularly the experience of celebrating it away from home. He shared his experiences performing for Vietnamese communities abroad, describing the warmth and longing for home that permeated these celebrations. He criticized superficial approaches to Tết, emphasizing the importance of ancestral rituals, family gatherings, and the spiritual connection to the land. He stated that a true Vietnamese Tết involves prioritizing family and tradition over superficial festivities.

Lessons from Contemporary Music & Intergenerational Dialogue

The speaker discussed his involvement in the program with artists like Ngàn Trong Gai, Subin, and others. He highlighted the unexpected connections and mutual learning that occurred between artists from different generations and musical backgrounds. He noted that younger artists were dissecting and analyzing traditional songs like “Chầu cơm” and “Đào liễu,” gaining a deeper understanding of their cultural context. He described a humorous encounter with Subin and his father, artist Nhân Dân Hoàng Anh Tú, illustrating the familial and collaborative spirit within the music scene.

The Value of "The Extra" & Cultural Nuance

He reflected on the importance of non-essential elements – “the extra” – in Vietnamese culture, drawing a parallel to the concept of the appendix. He argued that seemingly superfluous things can hold vital functions and contribute to overall well-being. He emphasized the importance of observing non-verbal cues and emotional responses in communication, a hallmark of Vietnamese interpersonal interaction. He referenced the proverb “Ăn thì trông nồi, ngồi thì trông hướng” (When eating, look at the pot; when sitting, look at the direction), highlighting the importance of context and observation.

Concluding Remarks & A Call to Remember

The speaker concluded by reiterating the enduring strength and uniqueness of Vietnamese culture. He encouraged the audience to remember their roots, family, and homeland, especially when venturing abroad. He expressed his willingness to share his experiences and insights, always grounded in a cultural perspective. He affirmed that there is nothing the Vietnamese people cannot achieve. He ended with a thank you from the organizers and a final round of applause.

Technical Terms/Concepts:

• Mưa Rồng (Dragon Rain): A Vietnamese film depicting the Battle of Điện Biên Phủ.
• Tử Chiến Trên Không (Air Battle): A Vietnamese film portraying aerial combat during the Vietnam War.
• Tết: The Vietnamese Lunar New Year, the most important traditional holiday.
• Quê: Homeland, native place, ancestral home.
• Chầu cơm & Đào liễu: Traditional Vietnamese songs.
• Dạ cổ hoài lang: A genre of traditional Vietnamese folk music.
• Việt phục: Traditional Vietnamese clothing.
• Nhân Dân (People's) Artist: A prestigious title awarded to Vietnamese artists for their contributions to the nation's culture.