She Strengthens

The Uncomfortable Reality of Poverty and Wealth

As I leave the movie theater, I’m struck by the stark contrast between the fictional world of Parasite and the harsh realities of poverty and wealth. Behind me, a wealthy family discusses the film’s themes, oblivious to the emotional toll poverty takes on those who’ve experienced it firsthand. They talk about installing a better security system, while I’m still reeling from the anxiety and shame that comes with living in poverty.

The film, directed by Bong Joon-ho, masterfully explores the disparities between two families: the struggling Kims and the affluent Parks. The Kims, living in a cramped, half-basement apartment, literally smell of poverty, a fact that’s frequently remarked upon by the Parks. As the Kims ingratiate themselves into the Parks’ lives, the film exposes the deliberate scheme and the harsh realities of class inequality.

For those who’ve never experienced poverty, the film may be a thought-provoking commentary on social mobility and inequality. But for those of us who’ve lived through it, Parasite is a painful reminder of the emotional and psychological scars that come with poverty. It’s a feeling of inadequacy, of being worthless, of being an outcast.

I recall my own childhood, where a trip to a cafe for my cousin’s birthday party was a rare luxury. I had no clothes to wear, no jeans, no “cool” outfit. I wore a glittery top that was too small, paired with pants from my school uniform. The humiliation and shame still linger.

The media praises Parasite as a masterpiece, and rightfully so. However, in our analysis, we often overlook the emotional toll poverty takes on individuals. We focus on statistics and systemic flaws, but neglect the human emotions that drive our actions. It’s not embarrassing to be rich, but it is humiliating to be poor.

We criticize the wealthy for their privilege, but we don’t shame them for it. We don’t make them feel embarrassed or inadequate. Meanwhile, the poor are left to internalize their struggles, to feel ashamed of their circumstances.

As I reflect on my own life, I realize that escaping poverty required a series of fortunate events, a streak of good luck that lasted nearly 20 years. I didn’t get sick, my family didn’t face any major setbacks, and I received full scholarships to college. But what about those who aren’t as lucky? What about those who are still struggling to make ends meet?

Parasite is more than just a film; it’s a reflection of our society’s values. It’s a reminder that we need to have uncomfortable conversations about poverty, wealth, and inequality. We need to acknowledge the emotional toll of poverty and the privilege that comes with wealth.

As I walk out of the movie theater, I’m left with a sense of unease. I’m reminded of the harsh realities of poverty and wealth, and the importance of empathy and understanding. It’s time for us to stop vilifying the poor and start addressing the systemic flaws that perpetuate inequality. It’s time for us to have a real conversation about poverty, wealth, and the human emotions that drive our actions.