Native Speaker By Chang-Rae Lee Essay

Characters often have issues fitting in due to many factors. Elements like setting and culture are a few aspects that can either help or hinder one’s ability to do so. The novel Native Speaker by Chang-Rae Lee uses elements of setting and cultures to depict ways that central characters behave in order to integrate themselves into society. This is evident through the difficult journeys of Henry Park, John Kwang, and Henry Park’s father, Mr. Park. These characters show their foremost efforts in trying to assimilate themselves. Setting and culture hugely effect the way that the protagonist, Henry Park, tries to fit in. Firstly, Henry is raised in a Korean household, so his first language is Korean. He grows up speaking slowly so that he does

This is noticeable when he does not read to him due to the fear that “he might handicap him” with his native speaking (239). Because he hides his speech flaws so well, many believe he is “not a native speaker” (205). This is significant because Henry acts very cautiously. Growing up in America makes him want to behave in a way that hides his native tongue so that he can easily assimilate with the rest of the country. Hence, his Korean background effects the way that he portrays himself in order to fit into society. Also, culture impacts Henry since he grows up with Korean customs in an American society. In Korean culture, hierarchy is very important, so Henry grows up learning to always respect his elders. This is apparent when Henry pours whiskey for John Kwang “with two hands” (271). Additionally, “by the custom with an elder,” he looks away while taking a sip of his own drink (271). The importance of hierarchy continues as he talks to Kwang in a manner that “[is] so respectful and Korean” (300). This is important because it makes Henry behave in a way that is very formal and orderly. Due to the fact that he works with people older than him, he uses this method of interaction to easily get along with them and leave a good