"Reclaiming true grits" and "Eating the Hyphen" are both short essays written to try and justify their way of thinking and give insight as to why they eat a certain way. Both of the authors are rooted in different countries, however, they both give very different opinions on the food of their heritage, as well as their views on microwaveable meals.
In, "Reclaiming true grits,"Terry talks about why soul food has negative connotations in todays society. She enlightens her audience by indicating how much it has changed through the past generations. Terry uses grits as her main topic, since it is one of the most popular "soul foods" in the US. Grits started as fresh, home cooked, African American meals and is now widely known as microwaveable food. The author uses a logical appeal throughout the essay by giving dates, and even going as far as using historical references.
"Eating the Hyphen," by Lily Wong, discusses her view on being a "Chinese-American." She doesn't feel heavily influenced by her true heritage, but she also doesn't feel wholly American. Instead of defending her roots like Terry does, she describes her own eating rituals with dumplings as something she has "Americanized." And, unlike Terry, she whole-heartedly loves microwaveable meals. The author allows the reader to understand her point of view by using an ethical appeal, and maybe even making you feel sorry for the reader.
I can relate to Wong's point of view of not feeling completely Asian, nor American, since I'm half Asian half American. The rituals she describes is just her way of blending two cultures. Like when my grandma comes to visit and she replaces mashed potatoes with rice or even eats rice with her pizza (my family is super serious about their rice).
I liked the differences the authors had. I liked how Terry wanted to get back to his roots, however, Wong is willing to embrace her Americanized ways, too.
ReplyDeleteIt's neat that your family eats rice with their pizza - I find that really interesting! I also like the point you made about Terry not liking microwaveable food, but Wong embracing it. The differences between people and their opinions on food can be so drastic.
ReplyDeleteNice discussion! I especially appreciate your personal examples: "Like when my grandma comes to visit and she replaces mashed potatoes with rice or even eats rice with her pizza (my family is super serious about their rice)."
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