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A Chinese Banquet Kitty Tsui Analysis

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A Chinese Banquet Kitty Tsui Analysis
“A Chinese Banquet,” written by Kitty Tsui, portrays the impact that approval has over people, and how one can be broken down without it. From the start of our lives, we are in a constant battle to feel appreciated and approved of what we do. Approval is a key element in development, and is always needed for a child to feel worthy and loved. Even as adults, we continue to seek the approval from the people we love in order to maintain a sense of security and happiness. Many people feel satisfied without gaining approval from their loved ones, yet these people often feel alone and detached from their families. Without the support from our loved ones, we begin to feel secluded, disconnected, and invalidated. Although people often view approval …show more content…
A parent’s love for a child is quite like no other. Because of this, parents often push their children toward the “best” opportunities, and expect the child to meet their desires. However, if the path the son or daughter might have chosen did not fall into the set category of their parents, there often becomes tension and disapproval. At times, the high expectations parents hold for their children are set in stone, and parents cease to acknowledge what the reality actually is. Kitty’s reality is that she is twenty six, in love with a woman, and lacks a “successful” job. Kitty’s mother takes no notice of what is real, and continues with her questions about how Kitty’s life should be. “You’re twenty six and not getting younger/ it’s about time you got a decent job…what are you doing with your life?/ why don’t you study computer programming? (19-22). Not only is Kitty’s mom disapproving of her love for another woman, but also mocks Kitty’s career choice. Not once does the question of what makes Kitty happy come up, it is only what the mother thinks is best for Kitty. The expectations of Kitty’s mother have only created a larger gap in their relationship, and developed neglect and hopelessness among Kitty. Instead of talking through these important matters, Kitty’s mom’s criticism of Kitty’s life overpowers any chance for approval, leaving her feeling

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