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MYNIPPON:
If one were to compile a list of all the fiction by
non-Japanese on Japan, an overwhelming number of books tend to have
Japanese females as lead characters and men are depicted as a necessary
evil. In “Kyoto
Connection”, on the other hand, the lead character is a Japanese man
who speaks good English and appears to be very confident about himself
in front of a foreign man. What
motivated you to create the character of Kenji?
Kemp:
Since I became interested in Japan, I found there were almost no
books with strong, male Asian characters as you point out.
In watching movies I found that there were not a lot of lead
roles for Asian men either. When
I saw movies like Dragon with Jason Scott Lee or movies with Chow Yun
Fat, I found them totally appealing.
I wanted to create a Japanese man that was strong, cool, and
intelligent. If I have a
hidden agenda I would have to say it is the fact that my son is Asian
(adopted from Korea), and I want him to proud to be an Asian in America.
MYNIPPON:
To a lot of foreigners in Japan, the experience curve tracks
the typical “S” curve popular among management consultants who
describe the growth of a market in three phases – initial excitement,
peak performance, and disappointing results.
How would you describe your experience?
Kemp:
Not typical. The first time I went I loved it from beginning to end.
As soon as I got home I started planning my next trip.
I think the reason so many people have the experience you
describe is the fact that Japan is a more “exotic” trip than they
are expecting. When I was a
travel agent, I would try to get a feel for my clients, and Japan is not
for everyone. Many people
who travel want everything to be just like home no matter where they go.
Some people are willing to get a little outside their comfort
zone, but Japan is ‘a lot’ outside most people’s comfort zone!
If you go to Europe, there’s a good chance someone is going to
speak English. You will
probably be able to make yourself understood, and you will find food
that is mostly familiar to you. People
go to Japan because it is so different from home, and although they are
excited initially, they quickly find the reality of maneuvering through
day-to-day life difficult. Before
I went, I did so much research
on Japan that I was prepared to feel lost there!
I also tried to learn some key phrases of the language to help me
get by. I found people very
willing to help if I made the slightest effort.
MYNIPPON:
Japan tends to be a controversial place for a lot of its
admirers. On one hand, its
rich history and culture fascinates them but if you spend a long time in
Japan and try to immerse yourself in the society you also see the other
side – discrimination of foreigners, mistreatment of women, and some
ethically doubtful business practices.
Would you like to comment on your experience and offer advice to
other Japan lovers?
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