Motifs

One of the major sidekicks that Themes’ posses are Motifs they are recurring structures, contrasts, or literary devices that can help to develop and inform the text’s major themes. List a motif that reoccurs throughout the novel and explain what the message the motif is pointing towards.

Comparision

Think about what you know, or think you know about the Chinese. Compare your view with how the book portrays the Chinese. Are there any similarities? Differences? Is there anything you are surprised by? But to be fair, you should mention if you think the novel does a good job of portraying this race.

Daughters vs. Sons

Isn't it a coincidence that all these women have daughters? Why do you think Amy Tan decided to focus the stories on a mother-daughter basis. In China, boys were always seen as superior and more prosperous/good for the family. What do you guys think about this? Why did she choose to write about daughters rather than sons.