Asian American Studies
Survived
The focus of this book creation centered on crafting a narrative-based illustrative book that authentically portrays the experience of living as a minority, specifically highlighting the Korean-American perspective.
This unique book presents a dual narrative, allowing readers to explore it both front-to-back and back-to-front. It opens with the story of my great grandmother on the first page and transitions to my personal narrative on the last page. Initially, it portrays innocence and optimism about life, depicting it as perpetually pleasant and beautiful. However, as oppression, injustice, and inequality are encountered, a sense of identity is lost. Yet, the book ultimately underscores resilience and the ability to find beauty and joy amidst adversity.
In the middle of the book, there is a fold-out page bearing the word "survive." One end showcases an illustration of my great grandmother holding the survival banner, while the other depicts me holding it. This symbolic gesture unites us and serves as a bridge, emphasizing our shared determination to survive and thrive in the face of challenges.
The theme of language and survival in my work was inspired by two pieces: "Tastes Like War" by Grace M Cho and "Disorientation" by Elaine Hsieh Chou. These narratives delve into the authors' accounts of experiencing complex and intense emotions.
This narrative work encapsulates the intricate blend of emotions shared by both my great grandmother and myself. Despite the disparities in our respective time periods, circumstances, and hardships, there exist significant similarities in our responses to adverse events. These parallels allowed me to comprehend her pain, even though our experiences may vary.
