The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #140865   Message #3250001
Posted By: GUEST
03-Nov-11 - 07:19 PM
Thread Name: BS: Racial stereotypes in retellings?
Subject: RE: BS: Racial stereotypes in retellings?
I understand, Grasshopper. But allow me to continue.

How would your antecedents from the Chinese side of your family feel/react were you to write using the terms chink or slant in reference to Chinese people?

Words carry baggage, and that's why they can create stereotypes so succinctly.

Few people have ever heard of Ng Moi, despite her having been one of the world's great martial artists. However, everyone has heard of Bruce Lee, another great top-ten.

A little known story: when the casting was taking place for the movie and subsequent TV show Kung Fu, Master Lee was refused the role because he had a Chinese accent. Instead, they chose David Carradine (born John Arthur Carradine) because he spoke English (on occasion with Chinese 'intonations' in the movie and series). Hard to believe that Cato from the Green Hornet was seconded to Mr Carradine, but he was.

You will do as you do, and no, you have no responsibility for other people's interpretation of your motive or intent, but regardless, in the final analysis, you will live with your decision(s) as do we all.

Best wishes to you.