Gish Jen's "In the American Society" is a poignant short story that first appeared in a literary magazine in 1986 and later became part of her critically acclaimed short story collection, Who's Irish?, published in 1999. The title itself captures the essence of the story, which revolves around the Chang family's experience integrating into American society. Jen's work has been lauded by readers and critics alike for its honest portrayal of cultural assimilation.
The story primarily follows the character of Mr. Chang, who takes over a breakfast restaurant to provide for his family and support his daughters' education. He is a benevolent and kind-hearted man who cares deeply for his family and employees, but he faces numerous obstacles in adapting to American customs and culture. Despite encountering several setbacks, Mr. Chang perseveres in his quest to become a true American.
Jen's story is a powerful reflection of the immigrant experience and highlights the struggles faced by families trying to integrate into a new society while also trying to preserve their cultural identity. "In the American Society" is a masterful work of fiction that resonates with readers of all backgrounds and is a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.
