Social awkwardness is probably living deeply in the Finnish DNA, and Finns have probably subconsciously conducted social distancing and already prepared to fight the COVID-19 since they were born!
Finland is often considered to be a nation of introverts, and the Finnish people are usually the first to make fun of themselves about it. "An introverted Finn looks at his shoes when talking to you," goes a popular Finnish joke about their personality types. ", while an extroverted Finn looks at your shoes.” Finland has also possibly become a dreamland for those who always feel socially awkward interacting with others.
“Finnish Nightmares”, a webcomic by Karoliina Korhonen, also illustrates and embodies Matti, the protagonist, as a typical Finn who fears small talk and relishes personal space. After reading the comic series at a bookstore in Shanghai last week, 25-year-old Yang Yiku says she now identifies herself as “spiritually Finnish,” feeling she fits the socially averse stereotype of Finns. Like Matti, Yang says she feels extremely uncomfortable in scenarios such as running into acquaintances, sharing the elevator with a stranger, or being mentioned in an office meeting. And many Chinese millennials share Yang’s feelings about the Finnish way.
But why do millions of Chinese people want to be 'spiritually Finnish'?
"Privacy is something of a luxury in China", and so are spaces. "Personal space is not a concept that ordinary Chinese are familiar with. Pushing and shoving is a basic survival skill in cities. If you fail to push with fellow commuters to get on a packed underground train, you’ll be met with impatient stares." Personal privacy is also another core political issue. Hence, for those who hate crowds and talks and feel "spiritually Finnish", Matti's life is a paradise and makes every person with social anxiety disorder see themselves in Matti.
During this period of global crisis, social distancing is probably not a big deal for Finns, who dislike socialising, because since they were born, they have already taken their personal space and privacy “extremely seriously”.
Source: The Guardian/ Sixth Tone
