The Good Earth Analysis

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Recommended: Use of Symbolism

In The Good Earth, by Pearl S. Buck, the symbol of land is so dominant that it permeates and ties together the entire story. O-lan acts as a representation of the land. The novel goes beyond her superficial features which resemble that of the earth. O-lan is described as having a brown hue, a simple, intent disposition, and an abounding inner life. O-lan’s practicality, perseverance, and fertility all embody the giving facets of the land. Just like O-lan, the earth is constantly supporting life and showing its resourceful nature. The pivotal role O-lan and the land play both seem to taper in Wang Lung’s view, and is put aside until they each reach a point of declination. Wang Lung views both O-lan and the land as important entities in his life, however he constantly values his land over his wife. In the beginning of The Good Earth, Wang Lung is constantly focused about working his fields, plowing the soil, and harvesting his crops. Even when O-lan tells Wang she is with child once again, he is only solicitous about the land. He is angered by the idea that O-lan won’t be able to help in the field during this time. This is a problem since they now have new land to farm. “…and when Wang Lung perceived one day …show more content…

The earth seems to be a constance solace for him. Wang Lung’s actions illustrate how the land was of high significance to him, even more so than his wife. “Before a handful of days had passed it seemed to Wang Lung that he had never been away from his land, as indeed, in his heart he never had."(138) This quote shows that Wang Lung’s heart was sincerely with his land. It shows the strong relationship between the two. This connection is able to overpower the relationship of Wang Lung and his own wife. Never has he spoken so highly of O-lan as he did his land. Throughout many instances in the novel, Wang Lung places more attention towards the well-being of his land than that of

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