Two Kinds by Amy Tan | Engelsk oppgave

Innledning
"Two Kinds" by Amy Tan, written in 1989, is a short story that revolves around two main characters: Jing-mei and her mother.

The narrative delves into various themes such as culture clashes and the evolving relationship between mother and daughter.

It takes the reader on a journey through Jing-mei's entire childhood, starting from when she was nine years old until she reaches adulthood and her mother passes away.

Utdrag
"In all my daydreams, I held the belief that I would soon attain perfection. My parents would adore me, and I would be faultless, free from any need to sulk or demand anything." (p.1)

Jing-Mei's parents were overly enthusiastic about molding her into a "prodigy," which instilled in her the notion that she had to be flawless for their approval and acceptance.

These expectations created a negative self-image and self-doubt, as evidenced by her inner dialogue, "If you don't hurry up and get me out of here, I'm disappearing for good," it warned. "And then you'll always be nothing."

The pressure placed upon her shoulders led to anxiety, making her doubt her ability to meet her mother's expectations and feel unworthy.

As Jing-Mei looks into the mirror, she sees only her ordinary face and becomes overwhelmed with sadness and self-hatred.

This phase of diminished self-esteem appears to occur during her teenage years, a time when such issues are common. The traditional upbringing by her mother causes her to lose her previous spark and begins to harbor a dislike for herself.

However, there comes a turning point in the story when Jing-Mei undergoes a significant realization. She perceives her reflection as an angry and powerful girl, realizing they are one and the same.

This epiphany leads her to make a promise to herself that she won't let her mother change her, and she decides to embrace her individuality, refusing to be what she's not.

This marks a pivotal moment in the story as Jing-Mei begins to embrace her identity and carve her own path, breaking free from the pressure to conform to her mother's expectations.

She undergoes a significant transformation, becoming indifferent and disinterested in her mother's expectations.

No longer desiring to be someone special just to please her mother, she starts ignoring her and withdrawing from her surroundings, displaying a lack of care for what is happening.