The title "Two Kinds" refers to the statement by the mother that there are only two kinds of daughters: "Those who are obedient and those who follow their own mind!" At the end of "Two Kinds," Jing-mei puts the title in a different light when she realizes that the titles "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented" are "two halves of the same song." In an essay, describe the connection between these two titles and the "two kinds" of daughters. Refer to events and details in the story to support your response. Use the reading selection to help you answer the question.
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In Amy Tan's "Two Kinds," the title takes on a dual meaning, reflecting both the mother's perspective on daughters and Jing-mei's realization about her own identity. Throughout the story, the mother emphasizes that there are only "two kinds" of daughters: the obedient ones and the ones who follow their own minds. However, by the end of the story, Jing-mei discovers that the titles "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented" symbolize two halves of the same song. This connection underscores the complexity of identity and sheds light on the underlying message of the story.
Firstly, the mother's statement about the "two kinds" of daughters establishes a contrast between obedience and individuality. The constant pressure to be obedient and conform to the mother's high expectations burdens Jing-mei throughout the story. Her mother believes that with enough hard work and determination, her daughter can become a prodigy in any field. This belief is conveyed through her relentless pursuit of Jing-mei's talents, from failed attempts at playing the piano to participation in beauty pageants. The mother's strict adherence to societal norms pushes Jing-mei towards rebellion as she starts to question her own identity and desires.
However, Jing-mei's realization about the titles "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented" adds depth and complexity to the concept of the "two kinds" of daughters. After years of struggle and defiance against her mother's expectations, Jing-mei is tasked with performing a piano piece titled "Pleading Child" at a talent show. Despite her initial resistance and lack of practice, she performs the piece anyway. To her surprise, the audience's reaction is not filled with disappointment but rather compassion and understanding. This experience leads Jing-mei to discover that the title "Pleading Child" represents her own vulnerability and desire for acceptance.
On the other hand, the piece titled "Perfectly Contented" represents Jing-mei's mother's longing to mold her daughter into the image of the obedient child. This desire is evident in her disappointment when Jing-mei resists her attempts to make her a prodigy. However, as Jing-mei reflects on her journey and the performance of "Pleading Child," she realizes that both titles, despite seeming contradictory, encompass different aspects of herself. She finally understands that she is not solely defined by obedience or rebellion but rather a combination of both. This realization signifies her journey towards self-acceptance and finding her own identity.
Overall, the connection between the titles "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented" and the concept of the "two kinds" of daughters in "Two Kinds" adds depth and complexity to the story. It showcases the struggles of identity and the duality within each individual. Jing-mei's realization about the interconnectedness of these titles highlights the importance of embracing both vulnerability and rebellion in order to achieve true self-acceptance.
To write an essay exploring the connection between the two titles and the "two kinds" of daughters in the story "Two Kinds," it is important to examine the events and details that support this connection. Here's an outline to help you get started:
Introduction:
- Introduce the story "Two Kinds" by Amy Tan and provide a brief overview of the main theme and conflict between Jing-mei and her mother.
- Mention the two titles mentioned in the prompt: "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented," and how they relate to the "two kinds" of daughters.
Body:
1. Contrast between "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented":
- Describe the events in the story that lead to Jing-mei being assigned these titles by her mother.
- Explain how the title "Pleading Child" represents Jing-mei's initial struggle to meet her mother's expectations and find her own identity.
- Discuss the significance of the title "Perfectly Contented" in relation to Jing-mei's transformation towards self-acceptance at the end of the story.
2. The connection between the titles and the "two kinds" of daughters:
- Analyze the statement made by Jing-mei's mother that there are only two kinds of daughters: obedient and independent.
- Argue that the titles represent the journey of Jing-mei in discovering that there is more to her identity than just being obedient or following her own mind.
- Cite specific examples from the story where Jing-mei struggles with fulfilling her mother's expectations while also trying to find her own path.
3. Examination of the "two halves of the same song":
- Discuss how Jing-mei's realization towards the end of the story sheds new light on the connection between the titles.
- Explain the metaphorical significance of the "two halves" in representing the complexities of Jing-mei's mother-daughter relationship.
- Highlight how the two halves, like the two titles, are complementary and essential to a complete understanding of Jing-mei's identity.
Conclusion:
- Summarize the main points made in the essay about the connection between the two titles and the "two kinds" of daughters.
- Reflect on the significance of Jing-mei's realization and how it contributes to her self-acceptance and understanding of her mother's intentions.
- Conclude by discussing the broader themes of identity, cultural expectations, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships explored in the story.
Remember to use quotes and specific examples from the text to support your arguments and analysis. Good luck with your essay!