Talk:Suzumiya Haruhi:Volume8 Wandering Shadow

Translator's Notes

Rembrandt

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (July 15, 1606– October 4, 1669) is generally considered one of the greatest painters and printmakers in European art history and the most important in Dutch history. His contributions to art came in a period that historians call the Dutch Golden Age (roughly coinciding with the seventeenth century), in which Dutch world power, political influence, science, commerce, and culture — particularly painting — reached their pinnacle.

"No artist ever combined more delicate skill with more energy and power," states Chambers' Biographical Dictionary. "His treatment of mankind is full of human sympathy" (J.O. Thorne: 1962).

See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rembrandt for more info

Rubens

Peter Paul Rubens (June 28, 1577 – May 30, 1640) was the most popular and prolific Flemish and European painter of the 17th century. He was the proponent of an exuberant Baroque style which emphasized movement, color, and sensuality.

More info at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Paul_Rubens

Shar Pei

The dog breed Shar Pei originated in China and has the distinctive features of deep wrinkles and a blue-black tongue. The name (沙皮, pinyin: shā pí) translates to "sand skin," not because of color but because of texture. As puppies, Shar Pei have lots of wrinkles, but as they mature, the wrinkles disappear as they "grow into their skin". The American Kennel Club did not recognize the breed until 1991.

See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shar_Pei

Tangut Inscriptions

By "Tangut Inscription on paper strips", Haruhi actually means charms, the type you usually see in chinese movies that are yellow and have red ink over them, which are commonly used to bind chinese vampires. Tangut is actually an ancient Tibetan language, and has no link whatsoever to chinese vampires. Haruhi is just speaking whatever pops into her mind.

Here's the link to the Tangut Language: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tangut_language

miko

There is no strict definition in English for miko, although "shrine maiden" is commonly used. Other terms that have been used as equivalents are prophet, medium, priestess, nun, witch, or sorceress. They are not actual priestesses, but can serve as clerics if needed.

For additional information and photos, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miko

Hinamatsuri

Japanese "Doll Festival", or "Girl's Day" as it is affectionately known. It involves displaying a large set of ornamental dolls, which are also sometimes called "Princess Dolls".

See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinamatsuri for more info and some pictures.

miko-mai

A ceremonial dance performed by miko.

Scottish Highlands White Terrier

West Highland White Terriers, commonly known as Westies, are a breed of dog known for their spirited personality and brilliant white coat. They are friendly, good with children, and thrive on lots of attention. They have black, penetrating eyes and small, pointed ears. Chances are, you've seen it before either in real life or in television.

For pictures and more info, go here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Highland_White_Terrier

Discussion

Question paper

Based on a quick check with Google, 'question paper' appears to be idiomatic for English English. It's not idiomatic in American English, where 'test' or 'test paper' would be the usual. However, it's unambiguous in context, and like English English spelling, I'm personally inclined to let it lie, now that I see that it's idiomatic somewhere.

Some examinations have 2 papers: A question paper with nothing but questions on it, and an answer sheet for you to write down your answers upon. I think "test paper" might work. Change it if you find it necessary.

--HolyCow 19:39, 22 January 2007 (PST)