To me, it remains incomprehensible that a people who can design the Porsche 911 and sleek, white ice trains, who created the Bauhaus and speak at least three languages at birth, want to own twee Christmas figurines painted in gaudy colours, dress up in Bavarian lederhosen, and eat Haribo gummy bears.

In this quote, Rory MacLean expresses his incomprehension regarding the contrast between the modern, sophisticated achievements of a people—specifically referring to Germans—and their fondness for seemingly kitsch or twee items, such as Christmas figurines, Bavarian lederhosen, and Haribo gummy bears. MacLean is puzzled by the juxtaposition of Germany’s rich cultural history and industrial prowess, exemplified by things like the Porsche 911, Bauhaus design, and linguistic aptitude, with the popularity of these colorful, commercial, and somewhat childish symbols of national identity.

MacLean’s mention of these sophisticated creations highlights the global admiration for German innovation and high culture. The Porsche 911 and ice trains represent technological and automotive excellence, while Bauhaus stands as a symbol of cutting-edge design and artistic thought. These references underline Germany's impressive global reputation in fields of engineering, design, and culture. The mention of being able to speak at least three languages at birth further emphasizes the intellectual and cultural accomplishments of the German people.

However, MacLean is struck by the contrast between these high achievements and the more nostalgic, commercial elements of German culture, such as the Christmas figurines and Haribo gummy bears, which are often seen as overly sentimental or kitschy. His use of the term "twee" suggests that he finds these items to be overly quaint or excessively decorative, contrasting with the modern, sleek, and sophisticated image he associates with Germany.

Ultimately, MacLean’s quote explores the dichotomy between modern German sophistication and a kind of nostalgic, kitschy consumerism, expressing both amusement and confusion at how these two aspects of culture coexist. He seems to be pondering why a nation capable of such remarkable achievements would also embrace elements of culture that seem at odds with their global image of innovation and refinement.