I disagree with Rudyard Kipling's assertion that "East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet." While it is true that the East and West have distinct cultures, histories, and traditions, I believe that there are many points of connection and common ground that can bridge the gap between them.
One example of this is the shared emphasis on family and community in East Asian and Western cultures. In Amy Tan's "Two Kinds," the protagonist Jing-Mei struggles with her mother's high expectations and desire for her to excel in a particular skill. This reflects a common theme in many East Asian cultures, where parents place a strong emphasis on their children's academic and professional success. Similarly, in Jhumpa Lahiri's "Interpreter of Maladies," the characters navigate the complexities of family relationships and cultural expectations, illustrating the universal importance of familial bonds and connections that transcend cultural boundaries.
Furthermore, both East Asian and Western literature often explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth in a way that resonates with readers from different cultural backgrounds. For example, in Banana Yoshimoto's "Kitchen," the protagonist Mikage finds solace and healing through her love of cooking and her connection to others, demonstrating the transformative power of love and connection in the face of adversity. Similarly, in Haruki Murakami's "Norwegian Wood," the characters grapple with themes of loss, grief, and personal identity in a way that speaks to the universal human experience.
In conclusion, while the East and West may have distinct differences in terms of culture and tradition, I believe that there are many points of connection and common ground that bring people from different backgrounds together. Through literature, we can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the similarities and differences between cultures, and ultimately, bridge the gap between East and West.
In "The Literature of East Asia and the Pacific Rim," Michael Harris quotes: 'Oh, East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet." With this famous line, British writer Rudyard Kipling has captured the idea that the East and West are so radically different that their people can't possibly understand one another. Do you agree or disagree with Kipling's statement? Write an essay in which you defend your opinion. Use relevant examples from at least two or three of the selections you read.
Be sure to include the title of each selection you cite as evidence.
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