Two Kinds: The Pursuit of Perfection

What is the main theme of the passage "Two Kinds" by Amy Tan?

Is it about the pursuit of perfection or the importance of intrinsic motivation?

Answer:

The main theme of the passage "Two Kinds" by Amy Tan is the pursuit of perfection.

"Two Kinds" is a short story by Amy Tan that explores the challenging relationship between a mother and daughter. The passage mentioned in the question reflects the daughter's belief that she would become perfect and gain the admiration of her parents. This desire for perfection drives her actions and decisions throughout the story.

The extrinsic motivation displayed in the passage is the daughter's expectation that her mother and father would adore her once she achieved perfection. This external validation serves as a driving force behind her pursuit of excellence.

Throughout the narrative, the mother imposes her own expectations and dreams on her daughter, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings. The daughter's quest for perfection is fueled by the desire to meet these external standards set by her mother.

In the end, the story delves into the complexities of identity, the pressure to conform, and the consequences of pursuing perfection for the sake of others. It highlights the importance of self-discovery and finding one's own path, rather than striving for an ideal that is based on external expectations.