ENGL M102A: Historical Survey of Asian American Literature
Prof. Nah
Question: Discuss the role of family and generational conflicts in shaping
the narratives of Asian American literature from the mid-20th century. How
do authors depict the tensions and connections within immigrant families?
Response: Family dynamics and generational conflicts are central to the narrative
fabric of mid-20th-century Asian American literature. In Amy Tan's "The Joy Luck
Club," the author intricately weaves together the stories of Chinese American
immigrant mothers and their daughters, exploring the complexities of cultural
expectations and the evolving dynamics between generations.
Question: Analyze the significance of language and linguistic diversity in
the representation of cultural identity in Asian American literature. How do
authors navigate the use of multiple languages to convey the nuances of
cultural heritage?
Response: Language serves as a potent tool for expressing cultural identity in
Asian American literature. In Jhumpa Lahiri's "The Namesake," the characters
navigate the complexities of linguistic identity as they straddle the line between
Bengali and English, highlighting the nuanced interplay between language and
cultural heritage.
