The Jade Peony by Wayson Choy
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In “The Jade Peony” by Wayson Choy, Jook-Liang’s family had immigrated to Canada from China. She suffered from gender discrimination as a girl who lived under Chinese traditional culture. “Jook-Liang, if you want a place in this world, do not be born a girl-child.” (27) However, Jook-Liang was able to withstand these negative views with the support of her friend Wong Suk, who she thought as the monkey king when she was young. After spending a lot of time with Jook- Liang, Wong Suk was able to give the support and care to her that she was lacking from her family. With Wong Suk’s open-mindedness and support, Jook-Liang was able to expand on her dreams and interests, as she showed a great fond in tap-dancing and yearned to become a movie star. She idolized Shirley Temple and mimicked her dance steps and fashion. It is effective as it shows how Jook-Liang was being influenced by North American celebrities and less by the traditional Chinese influences. She also tries to impress Poh-Poh with her performance. When Poh-Poh refused to watch Liang, it shows how she looked away from the modern, North American influences but the traditional Chinese culture.
Moving into a country of unfamiliar traditions and eccentric society, my family and I faced a lot of challenges like Jook-Liang. When I was thirteen, I moved to Canada. Barely knowing any English, finding friends was really tough. Whenever the lunch bell rang, I would be wondering in the hallway or eating in a corner on my own. Missing my friends and family, I was sobbing everynight under the blanket. Although it was tough for me, it was even tougher for my parents. They had a hard time understanding Canadian English comparing to the British English they spoke way back in Hong Kong. Communicating in English is a crucial requirement in order to live in the Canada. Therefore, my parents were subconsciously forced to take ESL classes and learnt about various unfamiliar obligation concerning health care, living accommodations and bills. Yet, they always kept a positive attitude about the future.
Reflecting upon my good economic situation back Hong Kong, I always looked at them and asked questions like “Do you really have to go through all this?” All they did was answer with a smile and, “Its all for you and your sister’s future”. Even though I realized that the principle reason I came here was for a better education, I never comprehended the troubles that they needed