I have always felt that the action most worth watching is not at the center of things but where edges meet. I like shorelines, weather fronts, international borders. There are interesting frictions and incongruities in these places, and often, if you stand at the point of tangency, you can see both sides better than if you were in the middle of either one.
In her book "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down," Anne Fadiman emphasizes the significance of observing interactions at the boundaries of different cultures. She suggests that the most compelling dynamics arise not from the core of a situation but from the points where diverse elements intersect, such as shorelines or international borders. These edges create unique frictions and incongruities, allowing for deeper insights into both contrasting sides involved.
Fadiman argues that being at the edge provides a broader perspective than being entrenched in either side of a divide. The rich complexities present in these transitional areas offer valuable understandings of cultural clashes, reflecting the nuances that come with navigating different worldviews. This concept resonates throughout her exploration of the Hmong and American cultures, highlighting the importance of recognizing and respecting diverse perspectives.
