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35m 48s

Techno-Orientalism & Reimagining Sci-Fi ...

Manpreet Kaur Kalra
About this episode

In this episode of the Art of Citizenry Podcast, host Manpreet Kaur Kalra is joined by author Elaine U. Cho in conversation about her new sci-fi novel Teo’s Durumi. Together they unpack techno-orientalism – exploring how her work contends with capitalism, colonialism, and identity – and why using our unique lens in art matters now more than ever.

This episode invites you to think critically about how narratives of the future are shaped and who gets to author them. Elaine’s reflections on diaspora, cultural authenticity, and resisting reductive tropes are not just lessons for sci-fi writers, but for anyone grappling with representation in storytelling.

During this conversation, we explore:

  • Identity & diaspora: Wrestling with the question “Am I ___ enough?” and writing through the tension of layered identities.
  • Orientalism & Techno-orientalism: From Edward Said’s groundbreaking critique to sci-fi tropes that flatten and exoticize Asian cultures.
  • Cultural Hegemony in Literature: Resisting the pressures of making her work “palatable” to a mainstream audience by embracing specificity, language, and cultural nuance.

📚Be sure to check out Elaine U. Cho’s book, Teo’s Durumi and debut Ocean’s Godori

Also mentioned in this episode: Edward Said’s 1978 book: Orientalism

📌Support the Podcast: Art of Citizenry is proudly independent. Support us as we critically explore, challenge, and unravel mainstream narratives by empowering listeners with accessible, nuanced perspectives. 

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artofcitizenry

Follow Manpreet on Instagram: https://instagram.com/manpreetkalra

Explore Past Episodes of the Art of Citizenry Podcast with Manpreet Kalra: https://www.artofcitizenry.com/podcast

For more, you can find the full show notes of every episode at https://www.artofcitizenry.com/episodes

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