Poetry Unbound Chen Chen — I Invite My Parents to a Dinner Party
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Nov 23, 2020 Chen Chen, an acclaimed poet and educator at Brandeis University, discusses the intricacies of family relationships in the context of his poem where he invites his parents to a dinner party. He shares the humorous yet poignant tensions of introducing his boyfriend to his parents. The conversation reveals the challenges of seeking acceptance and navigating expectations during intimate family gatherings. Chen's reflections on love, connection, and the awkwardness of coming out make for a compelling dialogue on acceptance and communication.
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Home Alone as Modern Mythology
- Chen Chen uses Home Alone as a mythological framework, treating it like a formative narrative.
- This elevates the movie to the level of classic myths, showing how films act as modern mythology.
Humor and Simplicity
- Chen Chen uses humor and plainly stated facts to convey complex emotions.
- The poem's title and simple descriptions create a deceptive surface layer.
Shifting Power Dynamics
- The poem shifts from seeking parental acceptance to creating a welcoming space.
- The boyfriend, not the son, extends family to the parents, reversing the power dynamic.