Clan: Short Stories by Soon Ai Ling

The past gets in the way of present and future possibilities, yet without it, what hope is there for self-knowing and wisdom? These questions are explored in Yeo Wei Wei's transcreation and adaptation of Soon Ai Ling's stories.Characters are caught up in private fantasies as they strive for freedom to love, freedom from fate.A multi-generational family mourns the mysterious disappearance of a flamboyant uncle with vampiric complexion. A teacher looks forward to her reunion with an apprentice whom she has adored for decades and secretly worships as a reincarnated goddess of Chinese embroidery. A teenager tries to save her baby by hugging a vending machine and refusing to give birth.CONTENTS: PART 1: ADAPTATIONSClan; The Phoenix of Big House; Table Manners; Dreaming of Madam Bai and Her Noble PeacocksPART 2: TRANCREATIONSBatik Rondo; The Talented Chef Tham; Opera; The Jade Around My Neck; Possession Soon Ai Ling is a native of Huiyang, Guangdong. She holds a bachelor's degree in Chinese