The Shift in Seasons: Climate Change and Commercial Pressure

In a recent episode of the Fluent Mind English podcast, hosts Hochul and Jack explore the shifting perception of autumn, analyzing whether the season is arriving earlier due to environmental factors or aggressive commercial strategies. The conversation highlights two distinct but intersecting phenomena: the physical impact of climate change and the social trend known as "season creep."

The Climate Context: Intensified Transitions

Jack shares his perspective from South Korea, noting that the country's climate has evolved significantly over the last two decades. He describes a move away from the traditional four-season model, where regions experience "subtropical" tendencies, resulting in long, six-month summers and extremely short, almost non-existent transitions into autumn and spring. Jack argues that while this might not be solely caused by climate change, the process is "exacerbated" (sped up and intensified) by it.

Similarly, Hochul observes shifts in the United States, reporting that he witnessed leaves changing color as early as September—well before the official end of summer on September 20th. He points to biological indicators, such as "surprise lilies" blooming "months before they were supposed to be," as evidence that seasonal patterns are becoming increasingly erratic.

The Commercialization of Seasons: "Season Creep"

The hosts identify "season creep" as the driving force behind the premature arrival of seasonal aesthetics in the retail world. This phenomenon refers to the tendency for commercial entities to push holiday themes, decor, and seasonal flavors earlier and earlier each year. Hochul expresses frustration with seeing items like "ghosts and pumpkins" appearing in stores as early as July.

This commercial push is described as being fueled by a "capitalistic churning" where businesses compete to be the first to capture market interest. The hosts agree that this trend is not merely a retail tactic but an intrusion into the natural rhythm of life, as the relentless focus on sales overshadows the authentic experience of the seasons.

Cultural Erosion and Commercial Exploitation

The discussion takes a deeper turn when addressing the "Day of the Dead" (Día de los Muertos) in Mexico. Hochul laments how a holiday traditionally rooted in "celebrating family" and "appreciating those who have passed on" has been transformed by tourism and commercial incentives. He notes that the holiday now features parades that "did not exist before" and a performative culture focused on "Instagram" aesthetics—such as "sexy goth" photoshoots—rather than the genuine honoring of ancestors.

While the hosts acknowledge that many families rely on the tourism generated by these events to "make a buck" throughout the year, they express concern over the loss of tradition. The commodification of the holiday, characterized by the sale of "sugar skeletons" and the focus on "face paint" for social media, represents a broader societal shift where cultural significance is sacrificed for economic gain.

Conclusion: A Call for Reflection

The episode concludes by inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences with season creep. Whether it is the Mid-Autumn Festival or other cultural milestones, the hosts encourage their audience to consider if they have noticed similar shifts in their own regions. By bridging the gap between meteorological changes and the pervasive influence of consumer culture, the podcast highlights how our perception of time and tradition is being fundamentally reshaped in the modern era.