Essay Questions

How does the author develop cultural clash as one of the main themes?

The Young Man is a character struggling with cultural identity. The Young Man's parents are from Asia, and he finds himself in America. According to the author, Asian American culture is conservative because it upholds the dignity and morally upright values. The Young Man's parents have instilled the Asian cultural traits in him, but he is trying to balance this with the immoral and corrupt westernized American culture. The confusion on what culture to follow leads the Young Man to homosexuality, shunned by his parents

What are the rots of the westernized American culture as depicted by the author?

The book 'Wonderland' enlightens the reader about the rots of the American culture. The author compares Asian American culture to the westernized American culture. The author concludes that the westernized American culture is immoral and corrupt. For instance, the American culture does not condemn homosexuality and lesbianism. Despite the Young Man being brought up by Asian American parents who value good morals, he designs the 'Wonderland,' a strip mall that promotes sexual immorality. Later, the Wonderland mall is banned, and the Young Man becomes gay. Therefore, American society considers itself as a free-world where each individual has the right to do what he thinks is right.

Is the American dream a commercialized venture?

Over the ages, America is positioned as the dream country where every person worldwide wants to reside. Millions of people apply to be American citizens annually because it is assumed that it is a free land full of opportunities. However, the author has a contradictory opinion regarding the American dream. The author uses the character Young Man to depicts the commercialized side of the American dream. For instance, the Young Man realizes that the best way to become financially independent is to embrace the strip malls. Family values are not vital on American soil because they are characterized by rampant divorce, homosexuality, lesbianism, and other immorality forms.