Persistence of cherished Hong Kong comic series Old Master Q through the years
Hong Kong's Iconic Comic Strip "Old Master Q" Turns 60
In 1962, Hong Kong welcomed a new addition to its vibrant cultural landscape - the comic strip "Old Master Q" (老夫子), created by Alfonso Wong Kar-hei. Over six decades, this beloved character has become an integral part of the city's identity, reflecting its social changes, challenges, and spirit.
During the boom years of Hong Kong, "Old Master Q" mirrored the city's rapid development with humour and honesty. The titular character, a tall, thin, bespectacled gentleman in traditional Chinese attire, embodied an honest, trusting, and kind figure navigating the tough urban environment of Hong Kong. Wong's comics did not shy away from addressing prickly topics, including crime, scams, the widening gap between rich and poor, and barriers between Cantonese and English speakers. Yet, they were filled with self-deprecating humour, as Wong's characters often "fell like a clown" to entertain readers.
Wong's creations, such as Old Master Q, Miss Chan (a gold-digging character), and Old Chiu (a wealthy prankster), became a reflection of the city's social dynamics. They portrayed a rise in selfishness and money worship, as seen in their harsh and cruel judgments. However, Old Master Q always got up and dusted himself off, seeming to contrast with the dog-eat-dog nature of the city.
Interestingly, Old Master Q appears to have originated from the Qing dynasty, despite not seeming originally from the modern city of Hong Kong. Pop music, modern art, and high fashion were subjects of mockery in Wong's cartoons, further emphasizing the character's traditional roots.
"Old Master Q" has been well-liked by various age groups, including children, parents, aunties, and grandparents. The character's qualities of honesty, trust, and kindness resonate with readers, offering a comforting and relatable presence amidst the city's fast-paced life.
In the decades following the boom, mainland China increasingly closed itself off to the outside world. Yet, Old Master Q continues to be observed in the modern-day city of Hong Kong, serving as a reminder of the city's past and a testament to Wong's enduring legacy.
[1] Wong, A. K. H. (2012). Old Master Q: The Art of Alfonso Wong. Hong Kong University Press.
- Beyond its satirical portrayal of urban life, "Old Master Q" also delves into other aspects of Hong Kong's lifestyle, with Wong mocking modern art, pop music, and fashion-and-beauty industries.
- Given its long-standing presence, it is no surprise that "Old Master Q" has left an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape, extending its influence to education as well, with books and comic strips being used as teaching materials.
- As entertainment continues to evolve across the arts, "Old Master Q" remains a timeless character, bringing elements of comedy, satire, and nostalgia to diverse age groups, including those who enjoy reading books as much as attending theater productions or art exhibitions.
