Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I wake up in my tiny workshop on the corner of Gyeongpo-ro, right? The sun’s shining, birds are chirping, and I’m like, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I’m a violin maker, right? I’ve got this passion for crafting these beautiful instruments. But today? Ugh. I’m working on this gorgeous Strad copy, and I’m all set to finish the scroll. I’m in the zone, you know? Then, boom! My neighbor’s dog starts barking like it’s auditioning for a horror movie. I swear, it’s like the dog’s got a vendetta against my concentration.
So, I’m fuming, right? I step outside to take a breather. I’m on the main street, and it’s packed. Like, what’s up with all these tourists? Gangneung is usually chill, but today it’s like a freaking carnival. I’m dodging people left and right on the busy streets of Jungangno. I mean, c’mon, folks! Can’t you walk in a straight line?
Then, I spot this cute little café on the side. It’s called “Café de Gyeongpo.” I’m like, “Okay, I need coffee. Stat!” So, I pop in, and the barista is this super friendly guy. He’s like, “What’s your poison?” I’m like, “Just give me the strongest thing you got.” He hands me this espresso that could wake the dead. I take a sip, and whoa! It’s like a jolt of lightning. I’m buzzing now, ready to tackle that violin.
But then, I get back to my workshop, and guess what? My tools are missing! Like, seriously? Who steals a violin maker’s tools? I’m livid! I’m pacing around, thinking about who could’ve done it. Maybe it was that guy from down the street who always looks at me funny. Or maybe it was the dog! I mean, who knows?
After a mini freak-out, I decide to take a walk along Gyeongpo Beach. I need to clear my head, right? The beach is beautiful, with the waves crashing and the sun setting. I’m walking along the sand, and it’s like therapy. I see families, couples, and even a group of kids playing soccer. It’s all so picturesque. I’m feeling a bit better, but then I step on a sharp shell. Ouch!
Now I’m hopping around like a crazy person, trying not to scream. I’m thinking, “Great, just great. Now I’m bleeding on the beach.” But then, this little kid runs up to me, all wide-eyed, and says, “Are you okay, mister?” I can’t help but laugh. Kids are the best. I tell him I’m fine, just a little battle wound. He looks at me like I’m a hero or something.
After that, I head back to my workshop, and guess what? My tools are back! I don’t know who returned them, but I’m grateful. I dive back into my work, and it’s like magic. The wood is singing under my hands. I’m shaping the violin, and it’s coming together beautifully.
By the time I finish, it’s late, and I’m exhausted but happy. I step outside, and the streets of Gangneung are lit up. The night market is buzzing, and the smell of tteokbokki fills the air. I can’t resist. I grab a plate and dig in. Spicy, chewy, and oh-so-good!
As I’m munching, I think about the day. It was wild, emotional, and full of surprises. Gangneung, you crazy city, you’ve got my heart. I’m just a violin maker trying to make sense of it all, one string at a time.