First off nobody has been able to answer this when I looked...
Please help out, maybye give me a basic answer to work off of.
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.
Please help out.
To answer the question, you need to analyze the connection between the two titles, "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented," and the concept of the "two kinds" of daughters as discussed by Jing-mei's mother in the story "Two Kinds" by Amy Tan. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can approach writing your essay:
1. Read and understand the story: Begin by reading the story "Two Kinds" by Amy Tan thoroughly. Pay attention to important events, character descriptions, and the overall theme of the story. Take notes as you read to help you identify key details later.
2. Understand the "two kinds" of daughters: In the story, Jing-mei's mother states that there are only two kinds of daughters: those who are obedient and those who follow their own mind. This statement sets the stage for the conflicting expectations and relationship dynamics between Jing-mei and her mother.
3. Analyze the title "Two Kinds": Consider the significance of the title itself. The title refers to the "two kinds" of daughters mentioned by Jing-mei's mother. It suggests that there are only two categories in which daughters can fall, leaving no room for individuality or a middle ground.
4. Examine "Pleading Child": Jing-mei, the protagonist, is first introduced as a "pleading child" who reluctantly follows her mother's dreams of turning her into a prodigy. This title reflects Jing-mei's early attempts to please her mother by conforming to her expectations, even though she may not fully understand or appreciate them.
5. Explore "Perfectly Contented": Towards the end of the story, Jing-mei discovers that "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented" are "two halves of the same song." This realization occurs when she plays the piano at a talent show and rebels against her mother's high expectations, delivering a flawed and imperfect performance. Despite not meeting her mother's standards, Jing-mei feels a sense of contentment and acceptance within herself.
6. Connect the titles: The two titles, "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented," represent the two extremes of Jing-mei's journey as a daughter. Initially, Jing-mei pleads to please her mother, conforming to her desires. However, as she matures and discovers her own identity, she realizes that true contentment comes from embracing her individuality and finding her own path.
7. Support your response: To support your response, refer to specific events and details from the story. Explore scenes where Jing-mei tries to meet her mother's expectations, like the piano lessons and the talent show. Highlight the turning point where Jing-mei rebels against her mother's determination to mold her into a prodigy.
8. Reflect on the meaning and outcomes: Discuss the overall message or theme of the story related to the "two kinds" of daughters. Consider the consequences of Jing-mei's rebellion and her reconciliation with her mother. Reflect on how the titles and the concept of the two types of daughters ultimately contribute to the story's central idea.
By following these steps, you will be able to analyze the connection between the two titles, "Pleading Child" and "Perfectly Contented," and the concept of the "two kinds" of daughters in "Two Kinds" by Amy Tan. Remember to refer to specific events and details from the story to support your response and provide a well-rounded analysis.
Make sure you have read and re-read the story. It needs to be clear in your mind before you tackle this. Then you'll no doubt need to go back into the story to get details.
Take it step by step:
1. In an essay,
http://lklivingston.tripod.com/essay/
(Follow all directions here. You need to end up with more than 2 paragraphs!)
2. describe the connection between these two titles and the "two kinds" of daughters.
(The word "connection" in these directions means you need to find the similarities, not the differences.)
3. Refer to events and details in the story to support your response.
("events and details" need to be either direct quotations from the stories or very close paraphrases.)
4. Use the reading selection to help you answer the question.
(You're free to find your ideas and details in the stories themselves. You don't have to do these things from memory.)