Second Journal

Andrew Beck

Period 7 2/3/99

Mr. Luizzi

The second half of The Joy Luck Club is not much different than the first half. The main focus of the novel is largely the same but the set of stories in the second half reflects the ideas and beliefs of the daughters in their grown up state and their mothers as old women. The second half of the novel displays how the pervading atmosphere of America takes a toll on the mother-daughter that the Chinese value so much. America, while filled with such wonderful opportunities causes rifts between the mothers and daughters that are not always reconciled. One example is when Waverly introduces her fiancé to her parents. Although she tries to instruct her fiancé on the intricacies of her mother, her mother prevails in having Waverly second guess herself. Waverly's mother, Lindo, does not fully understand the American culture, thus bringing the fiancé down for no apparent reason.

Also, the second half of the novel contains the actual "plot" of the story. At the start of the novel was the death of June's mother and her quest to uncover the mysterious regions of her life. June knew that her mother had had a previous life with another husband and two young children-June's half sisters. June's mother had to abandon the two babies in order to save her own life. Her mother never discovered the babies fates. Shortly after her mother's death, The Joy Luck Club received news that these sisters had been found, now more than 30 years later. June now must travel to the sisters and bring news about her mother's recent death. This will finally realize her mother's greatest dream.

This final story brings closure to the novel and exemplifies the fact that nothing is more important than the bonds forged between mother and daughter. Yet the novel proves that these bonds can often be weakened and broken by the American ambiance. It is indicated that while America provides many hopes and dreams, America can be equally discouraging.

The Joy Luck Club is a strong feminine novel which emphasizes that the family is key to a successful life. This is shown in a multitude of stories and proves that the family member is the only one you can count on to be there for you when you need it most.