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It's not that Hanoians are indifferent to the pandemic; that would be unfair to them. It's just that, born and raised in a land steeped in history, they can't force themselves to appear hurried or anxious. The ancient trees, the old temples and pagodas, the old alleyways, and the green lakes surrounding the bustling streets—all of these have shaped them into people with a slow, unhurried demeanor in the face of adversity.
They are scared too, of course. But bigger than the fear is...faith, that invisible and unwavering belief inthe cityIt has remained enclosed for thousands of years.Where the negative energy is dispelled from all sides, the human soul is nurtured.
A quiet afternoon, like any other afternoon.
Delivery drivers - "heroes" during lockdown days.
On Dinh Liet Street, there are scattered motorbike repair shops and glimpses of people going to the market.
The hustle and bustle of Ta Hien now only lingers faintly on the billboards.
And the street had the chance to return to its 'old days'.
Dogs these days also prefer to be 'quiet'.
Before Shark's Jaw, there weren't even two people.
The photographer behind this series is Quang Anh, who spent nearly a year and a half in quarantine eight times after returning to Hanoi from Europe. He thought that upon his return, he would have the opportunity to travel and photograph across the country, but ultimately...Hanoi during the lockdown.It was the first time I pressed the shutter button.
"For me, optimism comes from each person's spirit," Quang Anh shared. "Separating from 'normal' life doesn't mean we stop interacting with the world. I see it as a time of quiet reflection, returning to my true self, and rediscovering my inherent optimism."
People and birds stroll leisurely in front of Dong Xuan Market gate.
The security guard at Dong Xuan Market
Gone are the vibrant colors of the food stalls; the market is now surrounded by desolate stretches of light and shadow.
The lakes are silent.
By Truc Bach Lake
And passersby whispered, "Children, be careful when you go out."
"Hey, come over here and get a portion!"
