Student Question

What is the English meaning of O-lan's name in The Good Earth?

Expert Answers

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The word "lan" in Chinese refers to "orchid."  So O-lan's name is likely a derivative of this idea (which would go along with Lotus and Pear Blossom referring to flowers).  It is ironic here that O-lan's name would relate to a flower that is highly regarded in Asia for it's delicacy and beauty.  In the novel, O-lan is outwardly portrayed as the direct opposite of an "orchid":  she is not pretty, her feet are not bound, and she works in the fields.  However, O-lan is an amazing character for the quiet intelligence and inner beauty that she possesses, and in these ways she is much like an "orchid."  O-lan is a woman to be desired for all the gifts that she holds, yet Wang Lung takes advantage of her graces and does not appreciate the true nature of O-lan's character.

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