### Cultural Perspectives on Color and Luck

Throughout human history, the symbolism of colors has played a significant role in cultural traditions, influencing everything from clothing choices to architectural design. This deep-seated significance extends to concepts of luck, fortune, and the portrayal of emotions like mourning and celebration. The interpretation of color can vary widely from one culture to another, reflecting historical, geographical, and social nuances. This document explores how different cultures view the colors black, red, and white in the contexts of luck, mourning, and other cultural associations.

#### Black: A Universal Symbol of Mourning and Misfortune

**Overview**

Black, a color often associated with power, authority, and elegance in many Western cultures, also holds connotations of death, mourning, and ill fortune in various parts of the world. Its impact and interpretation can be seen in numerous cultural rituals and beliefs.

**Cultural Associations**

In many cultures, black is traditionally worn during periods of mourning. For instance, in Western societies, it is customary to wear black at funerals. The color is thought to represent the absence of light and life, embodying the depths of sorrow. This association is not only confined to the West; similar sentiments are expressed in parts of Asia and Africa.

The link between black and bad luck or evil is profound and often seen in language and folklore. Phrases like "black mark" or "black cat" can denote negative implications in various Indo-European languages. In parts of Europe and North America, a black cat crossing one's path might be considered a bad omen.

**Variations by Region**

In contrast, some Eastern cultures might see black as a color of virtue and maturity. For instance, the black belt in martial arts, originating from Japan, signifies the highest level of expertise and respect.

#### Red Ink and White Clothing: Cultural Taboos in East Asian Traditions

**Overview**

In East Asian cultures, particularly among Chinese, Korean, and Japanese communities, the colors red and white hold specific cultural significances that influence their use in societal practices, including those related to luck and misfortune.

**Red Ink in East Asia**

Using red ink to write someone's name is considered very unlucky and is even taboo in China and Korea. This practice is linked to an old custom of using red ink to write the names of the deceased on lists of family genealogies or on funeral banners. Writing a living person's name in red could imply wishing death upon them or could be seen as an act that metaphorically cuts them off from the living.

**White in Funerals**

In contrast to the West, where black is predominantly the color of mourning and funerals, white is traditionally used in many East Asian funerals. In this context, white symbolizes purity and the afterlife. Wearing white to funerals is a sign of respect and mourning. However, outside of funerals, wearing excessive white, especially bright white, can be associated with misfortune or unnaturalness, and is usually avoided in daily attire.

**Adultery Association with White**

The association of white with death extends into other areas of life and belief. For example, in some folklore within these cultures, white is also linked occasionally to adultery or betrayal, likely due to its stark visibility and contrast, which symbolizes a break from societal norms and purity.

### Conclusion

The implications of colors like black, red, and white in terms of luck, misfortune, and cultural practices illustrate the complex ways in which societies attribute meaning to the elements of everyday life. While black is broadly associated with mourning and misfortune across several cultures, specific beliefs about colors, such as the use of red ink and white clothing in East Asian cultures, highlight the unique ways different societies construct and observe their cultural realities. As globalization continues, understanding these varied perspectives becomes crucial in fostering cross-cultural respect and awareness.