Tea That Burns: A Captivating Memoir of Chinatown’s Enduring Legacy
A Journey into the Heart of Chinatown
Bruce Edward Hall’s “Tea That Burns: A Family Memoir of Chinatown” is a poignant and immersive exploration of New York City’s Chinatown, a vibrant and resilient community steeped in tradition. Hall, a “Chinese-Scottish Protestant,” delves into the Chinese side of his family, offering a unique perspective on the neighborhood’s history, culture, and enduring legacy.
Chinatown’s Unwavering Spirit
For Hall, Chinatown was an oasis of familiarity amidst the homogenizing forces of American society. It was a place where he could connect with his ancestral roots and witness the enduring traditions that had shaped his family for generations. Amidst the backdrop of Tong wars and festivals, the author traces the inevitable Americanization of his family, who changed their name from Hor to Hall in 1950.
A Tapestry of Characters
Hall introduces us to a cast of unforgettable characters, each embodying a different facet of Chinatown life. There’s Great Grandfather Hor Poa, who arrived in the United States with an unwavering commitment to his traditions, and Grandfather Hock Shop, known for his gambling prowess and suave demeanor. Hall’s father, the youngest son, embarked on a journey away from his ancestral neighborhood, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to shape his descendants.
Superstitions and Beliefs
Chinatown’s rich tapestry is interwoven with a web of superstitions and beliefs that guide the lives of its inhabitants. Evil spirits lurk in dark corners, kept at bay by goldfish tanks and winding streets. Food plays a central role in Chinese culture, with every meal an opportunity to celebrate life’s milestones. Hall vividly describes the tantalizing aromas and flavors that permeate the neighborhood’s streets.
Racism and Resilience
Despite its vibrant community, Chinatown has not been immune to racism and discrimination. Hall recounts the humiliating stereotypes that Chinese Americans have faced, from being labeled “sinister gamblers” to being subjected to racist taunts. Through it all, the community has persevered, finding strength in its cultural identity and resilience.
The Impact of World War II
During World War II, Chinatown’s patriotism was tested when America’s plans to send steel to Japan drew protests from the Chinese community. Despite the prevailing belief that Asians lacked the vision to fly fighter planes, the attack on Pearl Harbor proved otherwise. The war brought a renewed sense of unity and purpose to Chinatown, as its residents rallied together to support the war effort.
Celebrations and Traditions
Chinatown’s annual New Year’s parade is a spectacle of joy and tradition. As the Lion appears, its towering head and snapping jaws consuming red envelopes filled with money, it symbolizes the warding off of evil spirits and the promise of prosperity for the coming year. Hall’s evocative prose captures the exhilaration and significance of these celebrations.
A Legacy that Lives On
In “Tea That Burns,” Bruce Edward Hall has crafted a compelling memoir that transports readers to the heart of Chinatown. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of a vibrant community, its resilience in the face of adversity, and the power of family and tradition. Through Hall’s evocative descriptions and intimate storytelling, Chinatown emerges as a place of both beauty and struggle, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to thrive even amidst the challenges of time and societal change.
