Analyzing Arie Yung-Ok Lee’s “Eat Turkey, Become American”

In her essay “Eat Turkey, Become American,” published in the New York Times, Arie Yung-Ok Lee explores the symbolic act of eating turkey as a means of assimilation into American culture. Through personal anecdotes and observations, she argues that consuming turkey on Thanksgiving transcends mere sustenance and becomes a ritualistic act of belonging.

Author’s Claim:

Lee’s central claim is that eating turkey on Thanksgiving serves as a symbolic act of becoming American. She posits that immigrants, particularly those from Asian cultures, often view turkey as a foreign and unfamiliar food. However, by embracing the tradition of consuming turkey on Thanksgiving, they partake in a cultural ritual that signifies their integration into American society.

Target Audience:

Lee’s target audience encompasses a broad range of readers, including immigrants, Americans of various ethnicities, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of food and culture. She aims to reach those who may not have considered the deeper meaning behind the Thanksgiving turkey and to encourage them to reflect on the symbolic significance of food choices.

Author’s Choices:

Lee employs several rhetorical strategies to connect with her audience and effectively convey her message. She utilizes personal anecdotes to illustrate her own experiences as an immigrant and how the act of eating turkey became a symbol of her assimilation into American culture. Additionally, she draws upon historical and cultural references to provide context and support her claims.

Evaluation of the Author’s Claim:

Lee’s claim that eating turkey on Thanksgiving can be seen as a symbolic act of becoming American is a compelling one She provides strong evidence through personal anecdotes, historical references, and observations of immigrant communities. The act of sharing a meal, particularly one as culturally significant as Thanksgiving dinner, carries immense symbolic weight and can serve as a powerful tool for fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion

Key Points Supporting the Author’s Claim:

• Historical Significance: Lee highlights the historical significance of turkey as a centerpiece of Thanksgiving, tracing its roots back to the early European settlers and their interactions with Native Americans. This historical context underscores the cultural importance of the dish and its association with American identity.
• Immigrant Experiences: Lee shares personal anecdotes and observations of immigrant communities, demonstrating how the act of eating turkey on Thanksgiving can be seen as a way to embrace American traditions and integrate into society. She describes how immigrants often view turkey as a foreign food but gradually come to appreciate its significance within American culture.
• Symbolic Ritual: Lee emphasizes the symbolic nature of consuming turkey on Thanksgiving, arguing that it transcends mere sustenance and becomes a ritualistic act of belonging. By participating in this shared tradition, immigrants can demonstrate their willingness to adopt American customs and become part of the larger community.

Arie Yung-Ok Lee’s essay “Eat Turkey, Become American” offers a thought-provoking analysis of the symbolic significance of food choices, particularly in the context of immigration and cultural assimilation. Through personal anecdotes, historical references, and observations of immigrant communities, she effectively argues that consuming turkey on Thanksgiving can be seen as a symbolic act of becoming American. By embracing this tradition, immigrants can demonstrate their willingness to integrate into American society and participate in a shared cultural experience.