Molds

It is a fact of America that when a foreigner comes here they have to assimilate. Although we may preach we are a melting pot, we are in only sometimes. A typical melting pot melts together all aspects of each race; highlighting one or another, however, society has created a sense of unity through false advertising: the melting pot melts everything but this is poured into a certain shape: society's mold for Americans.

In Amy Tan's piece, Fish Cheeks, she retells one fateful Christmas dinner where she details the differences between her Chinese family and a typical American one. She particularly downplays her own culture in order to adhere to the American culture. Tan's mother helps her realize that she must mix the two cultures to get the best outcome. Despite her mother trying to help her understand that she is who she is, Tan does not realize this important lesson until she is older.

This piece ties into the way society has told us to perceive ourselves. For example, a long braid and long hair are typical of an Indian (not Native American, Indian as in India the country) - its easy and has its perks. I have chosen the best of both worlds: I have long hair most of the time and cut it to become short. Ask around, people normally know me as the girl with a ponytail and long hair. I opted out for the long braid.

Tan, as well as I, have chosen the best of both worlds. Culturally we are strong, yet we present a swirled image of both sides. On the inside she is Chinese, I am Indian. On the outside we are society's American molds.