Rhetorical Reading Response: “Born in Amrika”

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Rachel Scott

Dr. Cantice Greene

English 1102

29 September 29, 2017

In the essay “Born in Amrika” (2003), written by Mona Maisami, she explores the meaning of being happy with who you are as a person by comparing herself, who is Iranian but born in America, to her cousin Nina, who has only been in America from Iran a short period of time. Mona observes the difference in how her family acts, the language they speak and how they dress and uses her analysis to exam herself to figure out if she is considered to be an American or Iranian. Mona had to look at how her cousin Nina portrayed herself in order to find out that she should be happy with how she is, instead of trying to please her family and act in a way she did not on a regular basis. The written essay can be intended for an audience who has an issue with being accepted just the way they are.

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I am happy with this essay because Mona comes to find out that she should be happy with herself. The way that Mona took time to analyze her heritage and compare it to how she is now living was a major step. I liked how even though Mona was born in Iran and knowing that they are really strict on religion, appearances, and practicing the teaching, she remembers the important things and still finds a way to be comfortable with living in the society of the Americans. I think Mona found a real sensible balance for the two and still remain true to who she is.

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Mona’s essay showed that she was confused with who she in the given statement made to her mother, “Mom, am I Iranian or American?” I look up at her confused—not knowing whether I would rather be one or the other.” Giving the experience with her cousin, Nina at the park and visits to see her family in Iran, Mona’s mother helps her to come to a decision that she is happy with by simply implying, “You are the best of both, azizam.” Mona takes a look at her reflection and that confirms her feelings toward herself. She knows that it is OK to be who you are and the birthplace should not be the only determining factor that sums up your life.

 

Works Cited:
Mona Marimow Maisami. “Born in Amrika.” This essay was originally published in Franklin and Marshall University’s The College Dispatch, September 6, 2003. Used by permission of the author.