“Only through writing about you can I attempt to re member, not only you, but also myself. And perhaps, in writing and re membering, you and me, engaged in this delicate dialectic, can become something greater than the sum of our disjointed parts.”
This quote reflects the theme of identity, memory, and the relationship between the self and others in the context of Nguyen's experiences. Nguyen grapples with the complexities of self-identity by using writing as a tool for understanding both himself and those who have played significant roles in his life. The phrase "re member" suggests an act of reassembling fragments of memory to form a cohesive narrative. It is a process of integrating the various aspects of his life including the trauma and displacement associated with being a refugee. Therefore, the notion of "you and me" highlights the transformative power of introspection and storytelling. Nguyen aims to synthesize a deeper understanding of identity that transcends individuality towards the interconnectedness of human experiences. Thus, the quote encapsulates Nguyen's reflective approach to personal and collective history.
“Your mother comes back, but you do not remember her return. Má is simply present again.”
Nguyen reflects on the return of his mother after a period of separation, which demonstrates the nuances of familial reconnection. The lack of detailed memory about this crucial event highlights the trauma and disruptions experienced during his childhood. Moreover, the emotional repercussions such as the fear of being abandoned again underscores the impact of early experiences on an individual's psyche. It sheds light on the coping mechanisms employed to protect oneself from the pain associated with past traumas. This theme of emotional suppression becomes significant in understanding Nguyen's psyche and his subsequent journey toward self-expression. This quote encapsulates the complex interplay between memory and the enduring consequences of displacement and separation.
“Cinema transforms how we look at people, things, and places, and while Việt Nam has a cinema, few watch it outside of the country. At the end of the twentieth century, it is the Americans and the French who use cinema to shape Việt Nam’s global image.”
This quote underscores the transformative power of cinema and its influence in shaping the global perception of Vietnam. Nguyen reflects on how films like "Indochine" and "The Lover" popularized the French image of Vietnam. It presents it as a romantic and exoticized setting steeped in colonial imagery. He points out how cinematic representation driven by Western perspectives also influences the way people view Vietnam and its culture. It highlights the role of media and popular culture in perpetuating stereotypes or distorting the true essence of the country and its people. It prompts reflection on the challenges of navigating one's identity in a world where external representations hold considerable sway.
