The imposing entry way to a typical lanehouse community in Shanghai.
Where others see a crumbling dilapidated old building, I see beauty in the colour and pattern of the bricks. Beauty in the Ivy spreading like veins across the exterior. Beauty in the washing hung out to dry proving signs of life within.
These old laneway communities are becoming fewer and fewer as the city clears them to make way for shiny new concrete, steel and glass office buildings and malls.
Too often I pass one of these entryways to find the big metal gates have been closed one last time. Dry leaves and papers collect in the laneway and no washing hangs out. I feel sad knowing the old building will soon be gone. Left to stand her last days of life in silence. A shell of the once vibrant community within.
