Behind their eyes : identity in the work of Li-Young Lee and Suji Kwock Kim

Abstract

The introduction to this study outlines the theoretical framework for comparing the work of Li-Young Lee and Suji Kwock Kim. Using Walter Mignolo's theories about "border thinking," which he outlined in Local Histories/Global Designs, alongside Anzaldua's Borderlands/La Frontera as a basis for approaching Kim's and Lee's work, I demonstrate how the poets may be considered as embodying the role of border thinkers. Marianne Hirsch's definition of "postmemory," is explored, and its relevance to Kim's and Lee's work established. Short biographies of both poets are outlined. A brief overview of the position of Asian American poetry within Asian American literature is also offered.