Amy Tan's "Fish Cheeks" is an essay about her experience as a Chinese-American girl living in a predominantly white neighborhood in the United States. The essay discusses the importance of cultural identity and how it affects the way we feel about ourselves and our place in society. In the essay, Tan details how she was embarrassed to bring her family to a Christmas dinner hosted by her neighbor, as her family was not as cultured as the other guests. Despite this, she was able to gain a newfound appreciation for her culture and heritage when her crush showed up at the dinner and complimented her on her unique background.
The essay paints a vivid picture of Tans struggles with her identity and her eventual realization of its importance. Through rich imagery, she conveys her feelings of shame and confusion while also allowing the reader to experience her joy when she learns to accept and appreciate her culture. Tans use of language also helps to illustrate her journey towards self-acceptance, as she uses her personal story to discuss broader issues regarding cultural identity.
The message of Fish Cheeks is ultimately one of hope and self-discovery. Tan encourages readers to look at their own cultural identities with an open mind and to recognize the beauty in their differences. Her essay speaks to the power of understanding ones own background and heritage as well as recognizing and celebrating the diversity of cultures around us.
In many ways, Fish Cheeks has become a classic essay of American literature, as it speaks to all readers regardless of race or ethnicity. Amy Tans story serves as a reminder that we are all unique and that our differences should be celebrated rather than judged.
