Self-portrait: Bulimic Korean piano prodigy turned novelist

After returning to New Zealand, the narrator’s mother presented them with a suitcase containing old letters from South Korea, diaries, scrapbooks, and memorabilia from their time in Auckland, including cassette tapes and a program from a music competition. The narrator reflects on their family’s immigration to New Zealand for their education, feeling conflicted about their musical abilities and the sacrifices made by their parents. Despite struggles with cultural adjustment and feelings of guilt, the narrator continues to pursue music, influenced by their family’s sacrifices and the challenges faced as Korean immigrants in New Zealand.

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