“The Japanese are a disease of the skin...the Communists are a disease of the heart. Everything personal was political... Two reds sandwiching a black...”
Analysis of Quote by Jung Chang
In this quote by Jung Chang, the distinction between the Japanese and the Communists is starkly drawn. By comparing the Japanese as a "disease of the skin" and the Communists as a "disease of the heart," Chang is highlighting the different ways in which these groups are perceived. The imagery used here suggests that the Japanese are seen as a superficial, external threat, while the Communists are seen as a more deep-seated, internal danger. The idea that "everything personal was political" further emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of these perceived threats. Additionally, the imagery of "Two reds sandwiching a black" suggests a sense of being caught between two opposing forces, with the individual (represented by the black) being squeezed and overwhelmed. Overall, this quote conveys a sense of the pervasive and insidious nature of political conflict and ideological struggle.
Examining Historical Bias and Prejudice in Modern Society
In this quote from Jung Chang, the idea of prejudice and discrimination is explored through the lens of historical events. By comparing different groups of people to diseases, Chang highlights the toxic nature of bias and how it can manifest in different forms. This quote is a powerful reminder of the impact that prejudice can have on individuals and society as a whole, serving as a cautionary tale for the present day.
Quote Analysis
This quote from Jung Chang highlights the complex interplay between personal relationships and political ideologies.
“The Japanese are a disease of the skin...the Communists are a disease of the heart. Everything personal was political... Two reds sandwiching a black...” - Jung Chang
Reflection Questions:
In this powerful quote by Jung Chang, she delves into the complex and intertwined nature of personal identity and political ideology. As you reflect on these words, consider the following questions:
How do you interpret the comparison of the Japanese as a "disease of the skin" and the Communists as a "disease of the heart"? What do these metaphors reveal about the speaker's perspective on these groups?
Do you agree that "everything personal was political"? In what ways do you see personal experiences and beliefs intersecting with larger political systems in your own life or in society?
What does the phrase "Two reds sandwiching a black" evoke for you? How might this imagery speak to issues of power dynamics, intersectionality, or systemic oppression?
How do these words by Jung Chang challenge you to consider the complexities of identity, politics, and personal relationships? How might they inspire you to engage with these topics in your own life and communities?
Similar quotes
“The earth has a skin and that skin has diseases; one of its diseases is called man.”
“A not uncommon practice was to associate nationality with a particular disease, often sexually transmitted. For example, the English called syphilis "The French Disease"; the French called it "The Italian Disease"; the Italians called it "The Turkish Disease"; the Russians called it "The Polish Disease"; and both the Japanese and the Indians termed it "The Portuguese Disease." Only the Spanish accepted any blame, referring to it as "The Spanish Disease.”
“Ask not what disease the person has, but rather what person the disease has”
“It is far more important to know what person the disease has than what disease the person has.”
“Everything on the earth has a purpose, every disease an herb to cure it, and every person a mission. This is the Indian theory of existence.”