Amy Tan Two Kinds Essay

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The American Dream attracted millions of immigrants. They came to the United States to find prosperity and happiness there. People from all parts of the world moved to the land of opportunity to start a new life. Those who were looking for personal freedom and a good life considered the American Dream a power that stimulated their lives. They hoped that through determination they could fulfill the dream of material affluence, professional success and a bright future for their family. The belief that effort and hard work would be rewarded was at the heart of the American Dream. Even though the immigrants strove to have a better life in America, they didn’t want to change their traditions and culture. The immigrants wanted to speak their native …show more content…

In “Two Kinds” Tan shows a conflict between an American born girl, Jing-mei, and her Chinese mother who tries to fulfill her dreams through her daughter. The mother works as a house cleaner and tries to make sure her daughter succeeds in life. She is convinced that Jing-mei has the ability to achieve greatness. She looks for opportunities to discover what her daughter’s talents are. The protagonist opposes her mother’s aspirations and doesn’t understand her motivation. When the acting profession and intellectual tests don’t seem to be the right choices for Jing-mei, her mother buys a piano. The Chinese woman trades housecleaning services for Jing-mei’s lessons. The girl is not pleased with the decision but the fact that her teacher, Mr. Chong, is a deaf piano teacher makes the practice bearable for her. When the girl’s piano debut at the talent brings embarrassment not only to her but also to her mother, she is convinced she will never have to play piano again. Her mother however doesn’t give up which results in an argument between her and Jing-mei. However, the daughter’s hurtful statement that she wished she was dead ends the piano lessons forever. Jing-mei receives the piano her mother bought for her as a gift for her thirtieth birthday. In order to understand the mother’s action, we have to delve into the life and aspirations of first generation of

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