Authentically Asian: A Collection of Stories and Experiences by Asian Youth
Updated: Feb 19
Everyone has a story itching to be told. In light of the recent rise of anti-Asian hate crimes, this article aims to be a collection of authentically told Asian stories. By sharing our experiences, we hope to showcase the diversity in the Asian community and enable accurate and holistic representation. Enjoy a few stories from members of the Dear Asian Youth and TV Wasteland community.
American Lie
Riya Watches Her Sisters Fight for Honour (The Last Barfi)
5th October 2019.
Durga Puja is Riya’s favourite time of year—
this year is no different. Music swells
in the belly of her mother’s kitchen as she recites another prayer
before the day’s end. Riya would like to pray herself,
but struggles without Ma’s direction,
aware of her inevitably incorrect diction.
She prays anyway. Thank you for my family,
thank you for these blessings.
She scoops pomegranate into her mouth,
pops its skin with her teeth, relaxes into the sweet,
in the midst of her didis’ debate
over who gets the last barfi,
the final milk diamond on a silver plate.
Gita unpins layers of orange cloth from her blouse
as Mahua, adorned in pink, devises a fair game.
Riya can be referee. (She can’t eat pistachio barfi...
a stupid allergy. Apparently, God has a sense of humour.)
Rock-paper-scissors would be too easy,
halving it too diplomatic.
A sword fight, Mahua suggests. Whoever wins their honour
takes the treat. Gita, ever the eldest, sighs
but stretches in preparation.
The clash of the century!
Where had they left the wrapping paper rolls?
Riya meets her mother’s gaze, the golden warmth of her affection,
as Mahua shimmies out her gown, takes a battle stance.
She has the advantage: three years younger, trained by Ma in dance.
Ma approaches, kisses Gita on the forehead,
pinches Mahua on the cheek. Bestowing armour.
“May the best woman win!”
Blink of an eye, Ma sticks out her tongue, swipes the barfi, chews
heartily. Her daughters are too busy sparring.