IndexCultural Identity and Self-AcceptanceImportance of Family TraditionsConclusionAmy Tan's short story "Fish Cheeks" explores the complexities of cultural identity and the challenges of adolescence through the eyes of a young Chinese-American girl. The story is set during Christmas Eve dinner at the protagonist's house, where she feels embarrassed about her family's traditional Chinese customs in front of her boyfriend, Robert. This essay will explore the themes of cultural identity, self-acceptance, and the importance of family traditions as depicted in Tan's "Fish Cheeks." Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Cultural Identity and Self-Acceptance One of the central themes of "Fish Cheeks" is the struggle with cultural identity and the desire for acceptance. The protagonist, of Chinese origin, feels embarrassed by her family's customs and traditions, particularly during dinner with Robert and his family. Tan skillfully portrays the protagonist's internal conflict as she grapples with her Chinese heritage and her desire to adapt to American society. According to the article “Cultural Identity and Mental Health” by Tanya L. Sharpe, cultural identity is a complex and multifaceted issue. aspect of an individual's life. Sharpe argues that individuals who struggle with their cultural identity may experience feelings of shame, embarrassment, and alienation from their heritage. This is clearly evident in the protagonist's experience in "Fish Cheeks," as she describes her embarrassment about her family's customs and traditional Chinese dinner. Furthermore, the theme of self-acceptance is also prominent in the story. The protagonist's internal conflict reflects the universal struggle of adolescents to accept themselves and their cultural background. As noted in the article "Adolescent Identity Formation" by Erik H. Erikson, adolescence is a critical period for identity formation, and individuals may experience uncertainty and confusion as they navigate their cultural identities. This is reflected in the protagonist's struggle to embrace her Chinese heritage and find acceptance within herself. Importance of Family Traditions In "Fish Cheeks", Amy Tan also highlights the importance of family traditions and the role they play in shaping one's cultural identity. Despite feeling embarrassed by her family's customs, the protagonist realizes the value of these traditions and the meaning of family ties. Tan skillfully portrays the protagonist's journey from shame to acceptance as she learns to appreciate her family's legacy and the traditions that bind them together. According to the article "The Importance of Family Traditions" by Katherine Lee, family traditions play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging and connection within a family unit. Lee argues that traditions create a shared history and identity for families, strengthening their bonds and providing a sense of stability and continuity. This is evident in "Fish Cheeks," as the protagonist's family traditions serve as a source of comfort and connection, despite her initial feelings of embarrassment. Additionally, the story emphasizes the cultural significance of food and shared meals in shaping family traditions. As noted in the article “The Importance of Food in Cultural Traditions” by Maria K. Kouboura, food is a central component of cultural identity and plays a vital role in shaping traditions and rituals. In "Fish Cheeks", the traditional Chinese dinner serves as a symbol of the protagonist's cultural heritage and the importance of..