Mooncakes
Helen G.
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When I try to see myself through the lens of Chinese myths, the story of Chang’e and Hou Yi comes to mind. The myth’s takeaway has always resonated with me as a girl growing up in an increasingly polarized community. There are many version of the story, but in each, Chang’e oscillates between victim and villain and her eternity on the moon metamorphoses between punishment and reward. I wrote this piece during post-Roe v. Wade America, where the role of a woman and her relationship to her body is increasingly scrutinized. As I explored 21st century womanhood through the lens of ancient Chinese myth, I joined the mirroring narratives between the vilification and victimization of Chang’E and scrutinization of women. The story of Chang’E—in all its interpretations—has become a reflection of my identity and the lack of control that attempts to define it.
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To me, creativity has no clear-cut definition; rather, I think creativity is a tangible representation of my existence. By existing, I am creating, and my art is a visible representation of my inner consciousness. I write because I want to experience more than one life.
