Whilst out and about today, I thought I'd snap this rather elegant albeit familiar anomaly. Why anomaly? Well, for the one defining reason outlined below.
Surely, the structure that stands out in the image would be that sizeable replica of a Chinese pagoda taking centre stage. When actually the diminutive building directly to it's left is the main reason why people visit this place. It's called "Wing Yip" and is a popular wholesalers / supermarket catering mostly for many varieties of Chinese food and ingredients, as well as some home ware and crockery. It's always been very busy, with cars literally fighting with one another to get a parking spot. Especially on weekends.
However, the thing that I always found very peculiar was the pagoda. It's been a sort of showpiece attraction for passersby for many years now. Looking as impressive as it does though, it's always remained empty! I've never seen any activity either inside or outside. I imagined it's commanding presence should demand more "people" attention. I'd have thought it would have served a better function focusing on more of a customer based purpose, even based on marvellous aesthetics alone, but no.
As my wife is Chinese by origin, I've frequented this place more times than I care to count. And almost every time I do so, I can't help but give that building a fleeting glance so see if anything had changed. Alas, it never did and probably never will. Long will it remain a primarily abandoned structure, built only for it's oriental allure...
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