Introduction
In Maxine Hong Kingston’s novel “China Men,” the author celebrates the legacy of Chinese American men, specifically through the story of Ah Goong. Kingston portrays Ah Goong as a strong and resilient figure who overcomes numerous challenges in his life, ultimately contributing to building foundational elements of the United States. Through careful analysis and close reading of the novel, it becomes evident that Kingston aims to honor the contributions of Chinese American men and highlight their importance in shaping American history.
Discussion
The character of Ah Goong represents the struggles and triumphs of Chinese American men in the face of adversity. Ah, Goong’s story begins with his journey to America as a young man seeking a better life. From the moment he arrives, he faces discrimination and prejudice, experiencing both physical and verbal abuse. Despite these hardships, Ah Goong remains determined and resilient. He works tirelessly to support himself and his family, taking on various jobs and becoming a successful businessman (Kingston).
One of the key aspects of Ah Goong’s character is his commitment to his family and community. He is responsible for providing for his wife and children, working long hours to ensure their well-being. Goong’s dedication to his family is seen when he sends money back to China to support his parents and siblings. This selflessness and commitment to family is a common trait among Chinese American men, who often prioritize the well-being of their loved ones above their own (Ono and Pham).
Furthermore, Ah Goong’s story highlights the achievements of Chinese American men to the development of the United States. In the novel, Ah Goong becomes involved in constructing the transcontinental railroad, a monumental project connecting the country’s East and West coasts. Ah, Goong and many other Chinese laborers work under grueling conditions to lay the tracks and overcome the challenging terrain. This contribution to the railroad construction is often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives, but Kingston brings it to the forefront through Ah Goong’s story.
Additionally, Ah Goong’s involvement in the construction of the railroad symbolizes the role of Chinese American men in laying the foundations of the United States. The railroad was a transformative project that facilitated the country’s growth and development, connecting disparate regions and enabling the transportation of goods and people. By highlighting Ah Goong’s Participation in this project, Kingston emphasizes the significant impact that Chinese American men had on the growth and development of the United States.
Moreover, Ah Goong’s story also sheds light on the discrimination and mistreatment faced by Chinese American men during this period. The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers and denied them the right to become naturalized citizens, was a clear manifestation of prejudice and hostility towards the Chinese community. Ah, Goong experiences the effects of this discriminatory policy firsthand, as he is subjected to unjust treatment and denied fundamental rights simply because of his Chinese heritage.
Ah, Goong’s story is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of Chinese American men despite the discrimination they faced. In the early 20th century, Chinese immigrants in the United States were subject to widespread discrimination and prejudice. They were often seen as foreigners and faced exclusionary laws and practices that limited their opportunities and subjected them to harsh treatment. However, despite these challenges, Ah Goong overcame the obstacles in his path and built a successful life for himself and his family. He did not let the discrimination hold him back; instead, he used it as motivation to work harder and prove his worth.
Ah, Goong’s resilience is evident in his ability to navigate the discriminatory practices of the time. Despite limited opportunities, he found ways to provide for his family and secure stable employment. He took on various jobs, often working long hours and enduring difficult conditions, to ensure a better future for his loved ones. Ah, Goong’s perseverance is seen in his determination to provide the best possible education for his children. Despite facing discrimination and limited resources, he made sure his children had access to education, knowing that it was the key to their success in a society that often denied them equal opportunities. He encouraged them to pursue their dreams and instilled in them the values of hard work and determination.
Conclusion
In conclusion, through the story of Ah Goong, Maxine Hong Kingston honors the heritage of Chinese American men and their contributions to the United States. Ah’s character embodies Chinese American men’s struggles and triumphs, highlighting their resilience and commitment to family and community. His involvement in the construction of the transcontinental railroad symbolizes the significant role that Chinese American men played in building the foundations of the United States. Kingston honors their legacy and underscores their significance in influencing American history by shedding light on the discrimination faced by Chinese American men and their ability to overcome it.
Works Cited
Kingston, Maxine Hong. China Men. New York : Knopf, 1980.
Ono, Kent A., and Vincent N. Pham. Asian Americans and the Media: Media and Minorities. John Wiley and Sons, 2019.