Mystery Prohibition

Japan loves her Rules. Life would not run properly in Japan without rules. Rules abound, keeping the society well-oiled, moribund and dolefully scowling. When one squats over a squatter toilet, a list of rules on the proper method that will not disturb anyone nearby, or anyone who might happen to use the same stall within the next fifty years, stares one in the face: “PLEASE DO NOT INCONVENIENCE YOUR NEIGHBOR BY TAKING MORE THAN 2 SQUARES. PLEASE DO KEEP A STEADY FLOW OF WATER FLUSHING THROUGH THE SQUATTER SO AS TO KEEP YOUR ACTIONS HERE A SECRET, BECAUSE, BY GOLLY, NO ONE KNOWS WHAT YOU ARE DOING IN… A TOILET.” There are rules on skirt length in high schools. Rules on eye make-up. Rules on length of bangs. Rules on how long one may glance at the vice principal without bursting into flames.

Please, do not do anything.

Whilst some places are overly specific with what can or cannot be done- some places simply make sure they cover ALL their bases: No smoking, no food, no bombs, no pets, no NOTHING AT ALL.

Or, for the more verbose translation, something like, “No activities in the building which may disturb anyone at all. Ever.”

Sony runs a tight ship.

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Published:
6.10.07 / 8am
Category:
what i call life, culture, unschoolish