Essay Questions

What is the primary purpose of the re-education camps in Vietnam after the War?

The Communist government claims that it is using the re-education camps to re-educate rebels and those who do battle with the government. However, the primary purpose of the re-education camps is to punish those who oppose the Communist rule. For instance, Anh's two uncles who supported the American and Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War are sent to the re-education camp to be punished for fighting against the communists.

Despite having high hopes after migrating to Australia, why his Anh’s having financial difficulties?

After settling in Australia, Anh's parents start a garment sewing business that reestablishes the family. However, Anh's father, Tam, abandons the family midway to start his own life. Anh's mother is left with the responsibility of feeding and educating her three children. Anh's mother becomes poorer after she is abandoned by her husband but Anh does not get discouraged by that. He works hard and at last salivates his family from poverty.

Why is Anh not interested in studying law despite it being a prestigious course?

After joining the law school, Anh realizes that his interests are in comedy and art. However, he continues to study law until he graduates. He lands a well-paying job in a law firm but he is still not happy. He realizes that whenever he makes a small joke, he attracts large crowds and he discovered that he should be doing comedy instead of working in a law firm. He decides to leave practicing law and goes ahead to pursue comedy where he finds happiness.