Creativity﹕Monster Nian

【明報專訊】A long time ago, there was a quiet village in China. The villagers who lived there enjoyed their peaceful lives. Their village was prosperous, and everyone was happy. One day, a horrifying monster called Nian came to the village to eat plants and animals. The villagers were frightened and ran away.

The following year, some people decided to drive Nian away. Before they did that, they had to find out Nian's weaknesses. Nian was afraid of noise and the red colour, so the villagers put up strips of red paper on their doors and walls. They also lit firecrackers and beat drums loudly. Nian was scared away and never returned. The village was peaceful again.

It is now a tradition during Chinese New Year to put up red paper since people believe that brings luck, health and prosperity. We celebrate this festive season with our families. After all, we have to thank Nian, don't we?

(text edited)

Chan Ka Yan, P.5

Si Yuan School of the Precious Blood