The Grapevine is a project of Brian Ring, a Canadian artist who first came to Hanoi in January, 1996 and has spent most of his time here since then.

But – this Grapevine has nothing to do with grapes and nothing to do with wine, so…

Why is it called Grapevine?

The name comes from an old saying in English – “I heard it through the grapevine” – which indicates that information is recieved from an informal, usually personal contact. Information is passed along from person to person, something like a vine connecting bunches of grapes. When I started this blog the name seemed appropriate, because that was how I heard about most of the events happening in Hanoi.

This phrase is also familiar to many people because of a popular R&B song from the late 1960’s. “I Heard it Through the Grapevine” was recorded by many artists, probably the most popular being Marvin Gaye and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

You can read a good explanation of the presumed origins of the phrase, and a thorough history of the song and everyone who recorded it.

And while you’re reading, listen to Marvin Gaye or Creedence doing the song:

Mavin Gaye

Creedence

PS: the Grapevine moved to this address in May 2008. But it began its life as a free blog on wordpress.com. The first 260+ posts are still at the Grapevine’s old home.