Book Review: It Rhymes With Takei by George Takei
When I first heard about George Takei’s latest memoir, It Rhymes With Takei, I was instantly intrigued. As a lifelong fan of Star Trek, I’ve adored Takei’s deep voice and charm, but I never quite grasped the depth of his story—until now. Takei’s ability to connect moments of history with humor and poignant reflection made me eager to delve into his second memoir, and frankly, I was not disappointed.
From the get-go, Takei’s narrative opens with a poetic backlash against Florida’s infamous "Don’t Say Gay" bill, seamlessly fusing his activism with a call to action that encourages people to say "Takei" instead. This interplay of past and present serves as a reminder that history tends to rhyme—and it sets the stage for an exploration of not just his life, but also the turbulent times surrounding it.
What struck me most about this memoir is how it reveals the layers of Takei’s identity. Growing up as a child in a Japanese-American family, he faced challenges most of us can barely imagine. The very real sorrow of being interned in a concentration camp during World War II is countered by joyful reflections on his artistic pursuits, beginning as a theater student at UCLA, where his passion for performance flourished amidst the chaos of societal upheaval. Takei’s life, while seemingly charmed—a loving marriage to journalist Brad, a celebrated career—has been marked by personal loss, including the anguish of losing friends to AIDS.
Takei writes with a warmth that feels like a conversation between friends. His pacing perfectly encapsulates moments of humor and reflection, drawing us into the vivid experiences that shaped him. For instance, the anecdotes from his years as an emerging actor, struggling with the complexity of his dual identities in the ‘closet,’ are both relatable and deeply moving. I found myself nodding along, recognizing the universal quest for acceptance that he articulates so beautifully.
One of the standout moments in It Rhymes With Takei is when he touches on his parents’ mixed reactions to his artistic pursuits. This resonates deeply with anyone who has grappled with familial expectations. "Still, I find my voice," he writes, a mantra that echoes throughout the book, affirming the struggles and triumphs of authenticity. It’s a reminder that our stories, with all their ups and downs, are vital tapestries woven from both sorrow and joy.
Ultimately, It Rhymes With Takei is an essential read not only for fans of Takei or Star Trek, but for anyone interested in the intersections of art, activism, and personal history. It captures the essence of resilience and creativity, encouraging us to find our voices no matter the circumstances we face.
Reading this memoir left me inspired and reflective, prompting me to think about my own narrative and the myriad joys and sorrows I carry. Takei’s tale is a powerful reminder that every life has its rhythm—our unique beats can resonate with others, creating harmony that can transcend divides. So, whether you’re a longtime admirer or new to his work, I encourage you to pick up It Rhymes With Takei; it may just add a vibrant note to your life’s playlist.