Novelist Amy Tan has consistently drawn inspiration from her family for her writing. One of her most renowned works, "The Joy Luck Club," incorporates autobiographical elements.
Recently, she gained intriguing new insights during her appearance on "Finding Your Roots."
In the January 21 episode of the PBS series, the 72-year-old engaged with host Henry Louis Gates Jr. to explore her ancestry and uncover details about her forebears.
Tan delves into her lineage, beginning with her 22nd great-grandfather, who established the Tan family clan in the 12th century.
"You can trace your family lineage back over 800 years through documentation," Gates informed Tan.
Deeply moved by this revelation, she remarked, "Wow, it really illustrates how profoundly connected we are to our history.
It also inspires me to write more stories about my family."
"Well, we’ve done the research for you," Gates replied thoughtfully.
He expressed curiosity about how Tan's late father would have reacted to this newfound knowledge of their ancestry.
"He would have felt immense pride and happiness that we finally comprehend that aspect of our family," she responded.
"My dad was so intent on helping us assimilate into American culture that I believe he would say, 'Yes, now you're ready to explore this part of the family.
You can embrace your Chinese heritage with pride and curiosity, knowing that these are the people who have passed down what truly matters.'"
Tan has explored the Chinese-American experience throughout her writing career.
In a 2017 interview with PBS regarding her memoir, “Where The Past Begins: A Writer’s Memoir,” she noted that elements of her fiction are often drawn from her own life experiences.
"Every novel has a semi-autobiographical element. You draw from your questions, your perspective on life, and the types of people you find compelling or uninteresting.
The individuals who have influenced your life and shaped your identity are the ones you incorporate into your narrative," she explained. "Thus, they all carry an autobiographical essence."
