“If you want to take pictures of Chinese food, you have to taste real Chinese food. The flavors soak into your tongue, go into your stomach. The stomach is where your true feelings are. And if you take photos, these true feelings from your stomach can come out, so that everyone can taste the food just by looking at your pictures.” LiteratureFoodAsianAsian AmericanPicturesAmy Tan Book:The Hundred Secret Senses Source: The Hundred Secret Senses
“...you have to believe in its principles. Anything is possible, as long as it's for the good of the world. Make the exception. Live exceptionally. And if you can't do that, maybe we should consider whether you're right for the project. Think about it, then let's talk tomorrow.” CharacterMotivationAsian AmericanAmy Tan Book:The Bonesetter's Daughter Source: The Bonesetter's Daughter
“I was appalled at the idea. Evaporate? Would that happen to me? I wanted to expand, to fill the void, to reclaim all that I had wasted. I wanted to fill the silence with all the words I had not yet spoken.” ExpressionSaving Fish From DrowningExpression Of The SoulAmy Tan Book:Saving Fish From Drowning Source: Saving Fish From Drowning
“Oh, but being American has less to do with one’s proficiency in English and more with the assumptions you hold dear and true—your inalienable rights, your pursuit of happiness. I, sad to say, don’t possess those assumptions. I cannot undertake the pursuit.” “Well, you understand us,” Bennie said. “So that makes you at least an honorary American.” “Why is it such an honor?” Wendy said peevishly. “Not everyone wants to be an American.” Although Bennie was annoyed, he laughed. Walter, ever the diplomat, said to Bennie, “Well, I’m flattered that you consider me to be one of your own.” HumorAmerican CultureSaving Fish From DrowningAmy Tan Book:Saving Fish From Drowning Source: Saving Fish From Drowning