Or perhaps any other immigrant group in the U.S.

Inspired by Gish Jen’s Who’s Irish? book of short stories.

  • Temp — Only in America to accomplish some short-term goals. Intends to go back to homeland in the future.
  • Immigrant — Still new to America and its customs. Trying hard, but the going is slow.
  • Hanger-On — Unwilling to give up old ways of thinking, old ways of doing things, old Chinese traditions. Unable to make a smooth transition to life in America.
  • Cultural Curiosity/Freak — Does things the “old way” and provides a spectacle for neighbors.
  • Martyr — Never fails to remind children how much they sacrificed to go to America and provide a good life for them.
  • Go-Between — Usually a child of immigrants. Understands both traditional and American culture. Smooths the way for others, sometimes unwillingly.
  • Outcast — Doesn’t fit in with either/any culture. Doesn’t behave in a predictable manner as expected of a Chinese, American, or Chinese-American. Sometimes tries to find roots by returning to China.
  • Kiss-Up — Does everything possible to fit in and become more American.
  • Rebel — Deliberately and destructively tries to break free of the bonds of being Chinese.
  • Assimilated — Thoroughly identifies with American culture. Often forgets their Chinese heritage. Totally melted in the melting pot.

I’m mostly a Go-Between but am sometimes Assimilated.

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