The Tao of S: America's Chinese & the Chinese Century in Literature and Film

The Tao of S examines how American racialization of Chinese and Asians, Asian American writing, and contemporary Chinese cultural production have shifted from fearmongering to an overcompensating exultation of everything Asian. Sheng-mei Ma employs the Taoist principle of yin and yang to illustrate how roles of the once-dominant American hegemony and the once-declining Asian civilization are now turned upside down as China rises to write its side of the story.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2022
Publisher: University of South Carolina Press

The Tao of S is a captivating exploration of the intricate process of American racialization of Chinese and Asians, Asian American writing, and contemporary Chinese cultural production, spanning from the nineteenth century to the present. In her comprehensive study, Sheng-mei Ma delves into the works of nineteenth-century Sinophobic American writers like Bret Harte, Jack London, and Frank Norris, as well as twentieth-century Sinophiliac authors such as John Steinbeck and Philip K. Dick, along with the films Crazy Rich Asians and Disney's Mulan, and a plethora of contemporary Chinese authors. Through this rich tapestry, Ma sheds light on the shifting dynamics of cultural stereotypes, moving from fearmongering to an exaggerated celebration of everything Asian.

Within this analytical framework, Ma employs the Taoist principle of yin and yang to unravel the complex interplay between the roles of the once-dominant American hegemony (represented by the yang) and the once-declining Asian civilization (symbolized by the yin). As China emerges as a global power, particularly through the influence of television and media streamed worldwide, Ma highlights how these roles have undergone a remarkable reversal, with China now having the opportunity to write its own narrative and shape its own destiny.

This transformative shift is evident in various aspects of cultural production. For instance, Ma examines how American media and popular culture have often perpetuated harmful stereotypes and caricatures of Asians, contributing to a pervasive sense of Orientalism. However, she also notes the growing recognition of the diversity and richness of Asian cultures, with a growing appreciation for their contributions to world history, art, and literature.

Furthermore, The Tao of S explores the impact of Asian American writing on the broader cultural landscape. Ma examines the works of Asian American authors who have challenged traditional narratives and explored the complexities of identity, culture, and belonging within the Asian diaspora. These authors have played a vital role in shaping the representation of Asians in American culture and have contributed to a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of Asian experiences.

In conclusion, The Tao of S is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of American racialization, Asian American writing, and contemporary Chinese cultural production. Through her meticulous research and insightful observations, Ma provides a valuable contribution to the field of cultural studies, shedding light on the complex and ever-evolving dynamics of cultural stereotypes and their impact on society. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of race, identity, and culture in the United States and beyond.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643363073