ENGL M102A: Historical Survey of Asian American Literature
Prof. Nah
Question: Discuss the role of food and culinary traditions in representing
cultural identity in Asian American literature. How do authors use food as a
narrative device?
Response: Food serves as a powerful symbol of cultural identity in Asian
American literature. In Ruth Ozeki's "My Year of Meats," the author explores the
intersections of culture and cuisine, using food as a lens to examine cultural
assimilation, heritage, and the negotiation of identity.
Question: Explore the theme of intersectionality in Asian American
literature. How do authors address the complexities of identity when
considering factors such as race, gender, and socio-economic status?
Response: Intersectionality is a crucial theme in Asian American literature,
highlighting the interconnected nature of identity markers. In Celeste Ng's
"Everything I Never Told You," the characters navigate the intersections of race
and gender, illustrating the layered and multifaceted nature of Asian American
experiences.