Respond in a well-organized essay, and make sure your answer is written in complete sentences. In "The Literature of East Asia and the Pacific Rim," Michael Harris quotes: "Oh, East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet," With this famous line, British writer Rudyard Kipling has captured the idea that the East and West are so radically different that their people can't possibly understand one another. Do you agree or disagree with Kipling's statement? Write an essay in which you defend your opinion. Use relevant examples from at least two or three of the selections you read. Be sure to include the title of each selection you cite as evidence.
I disagree with Rudyard Kipling's statement that "East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet." While it is true that there are distinct cultural differences between the East and the West, it is not accurate to claim that the two can never understand each other. In fact, through the study of literature from East Asia and the Pacific Rim, we can see that there are many instances where individuals from these two regions are able to find common ground and bridge the gap between their cultures.
In the selection "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu, we see a deep exploration of emotions, relationships, and societal hierarchies in ancient Japan. Despite being set in a vastly different time and place from modern Western society, readers can still relate to the characters and themes in the novel. For example, the protagonist Genji's quest for love and fulfillment is a universal human experience that transcends cultural boundaries. This demonstrates that while the details of cultural practices and customs may vary, the fundamental human experiences and emotions remain constant.
Similarly, in "The Woman Warrior" by Maxine Hong Kingston, we see a blending of Chinese and American cultures through the lens of the author's own experiences growing up in the United States. Kingston grapples with questions of identity, assimilation, and cultural expectations, all of which resonate with readers regardless of their background. By sharing her personal story, Kingston is able to shed light on the complexities of living in between two worlds and navigating the cultural divide.
Overall, the literature of East Asia and the Pacific Rim serves as a powerful tool for building understanding and empathy between different cultures. While there are certainly differences between the East and the West, literature allows us to explore the shared humanity that connects us all. By reading and engaging with diverse perspectives, we can overcome the notion that the two can never meet and instead work towards a more inclusive and interconnected world.