Questions like these are stereotypical because it often plays into the idea that one person can speak for an entire community of people. Also that the experience of being a minority makes things like writing completely different when all writers suffer and struggle to throw words onto a blank page. There are a few things, however, that I can speak to. And if you are Asian American and write, could possible relate.
If you wonder:
- if your work isn’t connecting and you’re receiving rejections because it doesn’t resonate with the majority culture.
- if your work is chosen preciously because you are a minority in an industry and world that’s suddenly desperate to acquire diverse writers.
- if people are befriending you because they feel like they need more “diverse” friends.
- how to push against the culture that teaches you to not make waves so that you can be seen in a crowded landscape.
- whether to say something about all the hate crimes going on in the world because you’re afraid it will trigger a backlash against yourself.
- whether people see you as a person or a minority.
- whether you buy into the model minority a little too much and the toll it’s taking on your work and sense of self.
- whether you haven’t made it yet because you’re trying too hard to fit into a mold that wasn’t made for you.
- why it’s so hard to find books for your kids with authors from your culture.
- why even though the publishing industry is actively hiring more diverse agents and editors, there is an obvious lack.
- why a part of you writes to prove to your parents that you can make a living as a writer while simultaneously having never acknowledged that you yourself carry the same insecurity and self-doubt.
These are thoughts that stem from being raised in Asian culture but growing up in Western society. These are not excuses, but rather a way to listen to yourself if you connect with any of these thoughts. And to have compassion. While what you think is not necessarily true, there can be truth in how people perceive you and your writing.
The way to overcome it is to continue to believe in your writing, to understand your shortcomings, and the flawed perceptions of a dysfunctional society.
There is no perfect solution to dealing with these fears and misbeliefs, but the key is to be aware of them. Be conscious of it as you send out your query letter. Reflect on it when you receive a response and use it to be better informed on how you present yourself to the world.
It all returns to your inner work. The more time you spend healing those wounds that come from your experience, the greater and stronger you will be when you are ready to share your writing with the world.
Your voice is so needed.
Do not let more time pass without sharing your view. We are in dire need of it. You can read more on Asian American writers here.
