THE TASTE OF BELONGING: IDENTITY IN AMY TAN’S FISH CHEEKS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v5.i4.2024.2775Keywords:
Identity, Cultural Identity, Social Pressure, Chinese-American Immigrants, Self-Consciousness, Culture Struggle, Self-AcceptanceAbstract [English]
Fish Cheeks is a poignant short story by Amy Tan that delves into themes of cultural identity and self-acceptance. Set in the 1970s, the narrative revolves around a young Chinese-American girl who experiences a moment of profound embarrassment and self-consciousness during a Christmas dinner with her American crush and his family. The story’s central conflict emerges as she struggles with her cultural heritage and the desire to fit in with her peers. Through vivid descriptions and a deeply personal perspective, Tan explores the complexities of navigating between two cultures and the eventual realization that embracing one’s background is crucial to self-acceptance. The story’s blend of humour and introspection highlights the universal struggle of reconciling personal identity with societal expectations.
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