I noted the differences in the mindset and practice of those who are from China (Shaolin monks) to those who found kung fu as a way to escape and grow (Americans), which provides a look into the different ways two people can practice what seems to be the same art, and how those who really refine their skill come out with the same outlooks (such as the necessity to bring your mind into the practice). The Shaolin monks are also similar to those immigrants in the labor field who, in their homeland, were seen as professionals and officials, whereas post-immigration they are treated as lesser workers and not as intelligent [such as those we read about in Takaki and Lee]. Similarly, those in America who “get it” may treat the monks as though they are high in level but otherwise they are treated as (and quote) “nobody”.
During the explanation of Shaolin temple history, I thought of a connection between the temple being rebuilt multiple times since the Ming dynasty and how perhaps kung fu has also been “rebuilt”, as its reason for popularity and the lens through which people view it as important have changed. This led me to thinking of my own lens on kung fu; I am not an avid movie-watcher and did not grow up watching kung fu movies, so when I was watching the movements and styles I did not think of Bruce Lee or other famous kung fu stars. Instead, I thought of Avatar: the Last Airbender (from here on A:TLA) and Kill Bill. I am also very ignorant to the different styles of martial arts and/or kung fu so while neither of these media examples may have kung fu influence I wonder if others like me who are ignorant to kung fu make these connection as well. And if so, how does this “tear down and rebuild” the temple of kung fu in pop culture?
For instance, when the Snake style was mentioned as being inspired by viper, cobra, python, and mamba snakes I thought of how there in Kill Bill there is the fictitious Deadly Viper Assassination Squad (an all of those affiliated within in have snake-influenced code names, although they do not all match with the kung fu animal style snakes). Is the symbol of a snake or use of snake identity influenced by the animal styles?
In A:TLA, the nations are divided by types of “benders”, which are those that are able to manipulate thei specific element [ of the four elements] with the sole use of their bodies engaged with the element. Below is a sort of “making of” or “behind the scenes” style video of A:TLA which explains the influence of style behind each kind. It has specific references to types of kung fu (including Shaolin kung fu and tiger/crane stlyle) an shows the animation is action juxtaposed with a live action example.
Click here to view the embedded video.
(For more on A:TLA, here is the specialized wiki.)
I found both of these important because they allow us to look at alternative ways that kung fu is being represented and how the styles have influenced pop culture beyond the definitive sub culture made popular by Bruce Lee.