Girl in Translation: The Transnational Mother as Martyr

Abstract

Over recent decades, representations of motherhood in U.S. popular culture have proliferated, influenced by media coverage, literature, and advocacy. This paper examines the intersection of literature and social science through an analysis of Jean Kwok's novel Girl in Translation (2010), focusing on the character 'Ma' and her experiences as a transnational mother. The narrative portrays Ma's journey alongside her daughter Kimberly from Hong Kong to Brooklyn, navigating cultural dislocation, economic hardship, and language barriers. Through Ma's perspective, the novel illuminates the complexities faced by immigrant mothers striving to provide better opportunities for their children while grappling with identity shifts and societal marginalization. This study integrates insights from literary analysis and social science to explore broader themes of gender, power dynamics, and the immigrant experience, shedding light on the transformative impact of cultural adaptation and resilience in the face of adversity.