From Chin to Chee: An Evolution of the Asian American Literary Canon Open Access
Sheldon, Delaney (Spring 2021)
Published
Abstract
This thesis is an examination of Asian American literature from its early inceptions to contemporary, twenty-first century works. I explore the formation of the field through pivotal texts such as Aiiieeeee!: an Anthology of Asian American Writers and The Big Aiiieeeee!, with a focus on the effect these historical texts have had on the field for posterity. I analyze what elements the original editors and scholars viewed as essential for canonical texts and how contemporary scholars have adapted to those expectations. From these expectations, I question what the purpose of the canon is and how these varying purposes integrate issues of representation, genre, and mainstream success. I further examine how the canon itself has evolved to better represent the Asian American community while still maintaining the foundation that was established in the 1970s.
I focus on two contemporary novels: Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere and Alexander Chee’s Edinburgh. I explore how these authors and their works represent an evolution of the field, combining the resistance of early Asian Americans with the intersectionality of contemporary Asian Americans. Specifically, I analyze these texts using the dichotomy of real and fake that Frank Chin introduced as a means to judge Asian American authors. I argue that these moral judgements and gatekeeping tactics are symptomatic of white supremacy and that tradition and modernity do not need to be at odds with each other.
Lastly, I explore the future trajectory of the canon and how Asian American authors will continue to evolve their writing. I examine the potential post-racialist critical lens that some scholars have adopted and propose themes that will serve as connections between contemporary Asian American authors. Specifically, I argue that fire is a major crossover between Little Fires and Edinburgh, as the authors explore the cathartic and cleansing nature of the element.
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Chapter One: Canon Formation and Function 7
Origins 7
Intentions and Purpose 13
Power of Representation 20
Chapter Two: Little Fires Everywhere and the Universal Experience 33
Chapter Three: Edinburgh and the Individual Experience 45
Epilogue 62
Works Cited 69
About this Honors Thesis
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