culture clash
The two short stories, "The Tenant" by Mukherjee and "The Red Sweater" by Ng bear many similarities as well as differences. The authors of these two stories go about conveying basically the same message, however, with a slight variety. In these short stories, Mukherjee and Ng go into detail of the lives of two young women struggling with their identities as immigrants in the American culture. This clashing of cultures, predominantly the Asian culture (in these cases), against the American culture, is the central idea that one may conclude after reading these two short stories. Mukherjee and Ng both share or differ in the three literary elements of plot, theme, and characters in portraying the consequences of this culture clash. Plot is a literary element necessary in any short story, and is one given in "The Tenant". The protagonist of the story is the main and central character, Maya. The story is told in third person and much of the focus is centered on her. The antagonist of the story could also be said to be Maya herself. Exposition is told throughout the story. Bits and pieces of Maya's past relationships, i.e. husband, men, and father, are shown at a glance here and there. However, much is s
The story is told in her point of view, first person, and therefore her thoughts and mind is obviously known the most. The American way versus the Asian way is a constant struggle she cannot overcome, just as Maya in "The Tenant". That's why I married an American" 104, however, in the end of the story leaves the American man, Fred, for the Indian man, Ashoke Mehta. She had bought her sister a red sweater to make her happy, letting her be free of the Chinese culture for a short while, but gives her one made in Hong Kong. her parents ways, however, is not able too. "Fran knows about the divorce, but nothing else" 104. They had gone to an American restaurant to eat, however, had a longing to go to a Chinese one. Plot in Ng's, "The Red Sweater" is similar as the plot in Mukherjee's, "The Tenant", however, the two are not identical. Lastly and most importantly, theme is a major element used by both Mukherjee and Ng in writing the two short stories. Maya in "The Tenant", is never successfully able to get away from her Indian culture. She is found imitating her father when ordering drinks at the restaurant.
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Acceptance Essays
