When The Broken Glass Floats Summary

When most Americans think of conflict in Southeast Asia, they think of the Vietnam War. Few know about the atrocities committed in Cambodia, even though it correlates to the communist uprising in Vietnam. When The Broken Glass Floats is a firsthand account of the struggles of Cambodians when the Khmer Rouge, the communist party of Cambodia, took over the country. Told by Chanrithy Him, it details the life of her and her family, during the Cambodian Civil War and Genocide. She explores Seen through the eyes of a four year old girl, the book begins by expressing the constant threat of war through the lens of nativity and childlike ignorance. Although she does not completely understand the sound of artillery exploding in the distance or why

One of the most devastating and important losses was the loss of their culture. When the Khmer Rouge came into power, they put forth their vision of a classless society by attempting to eradicate family relations, religion, education, cultural values and even informalities, like simple greetings that indicated respect. For example, Cambodians follow a complex code of addresses that show respect for one’s superiors, often calling them uncle, aunt, brother, or sister. An emphasis is put on showing respect for those older than you, even if just by a few years. In order to enforce uniformity, the Khmer Rouge suppressed these forms of addresses, opting for the use of comrade instead. Another important part of Cambodian life is religion, as mentioned in When The Broken Glass Floats several times. Chanrithy prays to Buddha and the spirit of her father during the most painful experiences of her childhood. Superstition is common in Cambodia, like when Chanrithy gets sicks and the elders of her community claim she is possessed by her father’s ghost. Under communist rule, religion is outlawed and any religious practice or ritual was a crime worthy of execution. Cambodia, like many cultures, places a strong emphasis on family, but that was suppressed under communism. While in power, the Khmer Rouge