Aspects of identity of a returned adoptee presented in Jane Jeong Trenka’s Fugitive Visions

Abstract

This study explores the aspects of psychological conflict and alienation experienced by a returned adoptee due to language and cultural differences in the home country in Jane Jeong Trenka’s Fugitive Visions. Fugitive Visions shows how Trenka, who finally moved to Korea after visiting Korea several times and lives in Seoul, cannot be absorbed into Korean society as she is neither a foreigner nor a Jaemigyopo. Trenka believes that the reason is the difference in language and culture. Ironically, the distance from their home country cannot be close due to limitations in communication and a heterogeneous culture. Also, Fugitive Visions goes beyond the personal history of an overseas adoptee and talks about Korea’s past, present, and future by reflecting on the self-portraits of other returned adoptees who have become parts of the evidence of Korean history. Overseas adoption should not be ignored. When we remember it and accept returned adoptees as members of our society, a multicultural educational foundation can be settled for realizing the ultimate transnationalism we pursue. In addition, English education that deals with literary texts showing various aspects of multiculturalism can have educational implications in broadening understanding of other cultures and listening to minority voices.