The Theme of Fish Cheeks by Amy Tan

Have you ever been embarrassed by your family in front of someone you admire? In the poignant and humorous essay "Fish Cheeks," Amy Tan explores the theme of cultural identity and the struggle to accept one's heritage. Tan's personal narrative recounts a Christmas Eve dinner where she feels ashamed of her Chinese customs in the presence of her crush, Robert. Through vivid descriptions and introspective reflections, Tan highlights the internal conflict between embracing her Chinese heritage and desiring acceptance from the American society. The theme of Fish Cheeks revolves around the importance of self-acceptance and the celebration of cultural diversity, as exemplified by the character's journey of self-discovery and transformation.

Acceptance of Cultural Identity

One of the central themes in Fish Cheeks is the acceptance of one's cultural identity. Throughout the essay, Tan grapples with her embarrassment and shame over her Chinese customs, particularly during the dinner with her American friends. She describes her mother's preparation of traditional Chinese dishes, such as steamed fish and boiled rice, as "disgusting." This demonstrates her initial rejection of her own cultural heritage in favor of American customs. However, as the story progresses, Tan reveals her desire for acceptance from both her American peers and her crush, Robert. She states, "I wanted to disappear," indicating her wish to distance herself from her Chinese identity in order to fit in with the American society.

Tan's internal conflict is further highlighted when she describes the moment Robert arrives at her house for dinner. She states, "I saw my mother's eyes widen in disbelief," emphasizing her mother's shock and disappointment upon witnessing Tan's embarrassment towards her own culture. This moment serves as a turning point for Tan, as she realizes the importance of embracing her heritage and accepting herself for who she is. This realization is illustrated when she states, "I realized that in spite of the humiliation, I had not eaten the toothpick fish cheeks. I hadn't heard myself laugh since... I was ashamed of being different." Tan's decision not to eat the fish cheeks signifies her acceptance of her cultural identity and her refusal to be ashamed of her heritage any longer.

Celebration of Cultural Diversity

In addition to self-acceptance, Fish Cheeks also emphasizes the celebration of cultural diversity. Tan's essay sheds light on the beauty and richness of different cultures, urging readers to appreciate and embrace the diversity that exists in society. Despite her initial embarrassment, Tan's description of the Chinese dinner reveals the intricate and vibrant traditions of her culture. She describes the dishes as "slimy, with a hint of fishy taste," showcasing her unique perspective and appreciation for the flavors and textures of Chinese cuisine. Through her vivid descriptions, Tan invites readers to see the beauty in cultural differences and challenges the notion of a single "normal" or ideal way of being.

Tan's celebration of cultural diversity is further exemplified through her vivid language and imagery. She compares the dinner table to "a war zone," highlighting the clash between different cultural customs and the discomfort caused by this clash. However, as the dinner progresses, Tan's perspective begins to shift. She describes the sound of her family members eating as "a chorus of sour notes," but later realizes that "each of those notes is a symphony." This realization represents her growing appreciation for the unique qualities and contributions that each culture brings to the table.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Amy Tan's "Fish Cheeks" explores the theme of cultural identity and the struggle to accept one's heritage. Through her personal narrative, Tan highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the celebration of cultural diversity. The essay showcases the internal conflict faced by the protagonist, who initially feels ashamed of her Chinese customs but eventually learns to embrace her heritage. Tan's vivid descriptions and introspective reflections invite readers to appreciate and celebrate the richness of different cultures. Ultimately, Fish Cheeks serves as a reminder that our cultural identity is something to be cherished and celebrated, rather than hidden or rejected.

Works Cited:

Tan, Amy. "Fish Cheeks." The New York Times, 1987.