Morehouse

Morehouse is another major character in Gish Jen’s short story “The Third Dumpster”.

Just like in the case of his brother Goodwin, we can assume Morehouse is in his 40s due to the old age of his parents (l. 9). Morehouse is also unemployed (l. 36) and works irregularly as a contractor (ll. 7-8). He is also Chinese-American and lives in the same city as his brother (ll. 4-5). He has a “Taoist ba gua tattoo” (l. 39) that suggests his Chinese origins and his connection to Chinese culture.

The name “Morehouse” can suggest his attitude towards his parents, as he is more inclined to see them living in the house he bought for them than to have them move in with him. Furthermore, the fact that the surname “Lee” is attributed to Goodwin but not to Morehouse (l. 1) can show that Morehouse is not as attached to Chinese culture and to his family as his brother.

Inner characterisation

Morehouse’s characterisation is also built in contrast with his brother.

Morehouse seems to be more accepting and open when it comes to American culture. He does not entirely understand the refusal of his parents to eat Western food, as he himself eats American foods like salad and drinks healthy shakes in the morning (ll. 21-22). However, it is suggested he is aware that he...