(Version in Hokkien)
Ai Ai
Bay Kiam Chai
Sio Sio, Chit Ouar Lai
Leng Leng
Gua Mm Mai!
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(Version in English)
Ai Ai
Selling salted vegetables
Hot hot, bring me a bowl
Cold cold
Then I do not want it!
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About this rhyme/ditty:~
This rhyme/ditty is a teaser aimed at a lady named Ai Ai. The word ‘Leng Leng’ is a pun which could either mean ‘cold’ or ‘breast’.
The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..
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