Themes: Mother-Daughter Relationships

“Rules of the Game,” like the novel in which it appears, The Joy Luck Club, is primarily about the complex relationships between mothers and daughters. In this story, Waverly learns from her mother, Lindo, but later sees her as her enemy, an obstacle in her way to achieving success and a sense of herself. Early in the story, when Waverly is only six years old, Lindo instructs her in various lessons, the most prominent being “the art of...

Themes: Secrets and Silence

Waverly is drawn to the game of chess initially because she thinks of it as a game characterized by secrets. At first, of course, chess is a complete unknown for Waverly; she must build her knowledge gradually, through a series of matches with Vincent, then with Lau Po, and eventually in competitive tournaments. She is attracted to her sense that chess’s “secrets [are] waiting to be untangled” and is up for the challenge. Once she becomes skilled...

Themes: The American Dream

The American dream and the immigrant experience are important background themes in “Rules of the Game.” Throughout the story, Waverly recounts lessons from her mother that are related to Lindo’s own Chinese upbringing. For example, in explaining invisible strength she says, “In Chinese we say, Come from South, blow with wind—poom!—North will follow. Strongest wind cannot be seen.” Lindo’s dialogue is not spoken in conventional formal English....

Themes: Family Dynamics

Rules of the Game explores the complex family dynamics between Waverly Jong and her mother. The story delves into themes of cultural identity, generational conflict, and the struggle for independence within the context of an immigrant family. Waverly's relationship with her mother is central to understanding these dynamics, as it highlights both the tension and the bond that exist between them.

Waverly's mother imparts the "art of invisible...

Themes: Invisible Strength

In "Rules of the Game," the theme of invisible strength is central to the protagonist Waverly's development and success. Invisible strength, as taught by Waverly's mother, is the art of subtle manipulation and strategic thinking, allowing one to achieve goals without overt confrontation. This concept is crucial in Waverly's journey as a chess prodigy and in her personal growth, reflecting the blend of cultural values and the immigrant experience.

Themes: Cultural Identity

The theme of cultural identity in "Rules of the Game" explores the tension between traditional Chinese culture and modern American life. This theme is embodied in the relationship between Waverly and her mother, Lindo. Lindo's desire for Waverly to succeed in America while maintaining her Chinese heritage highlights the complex interplay between these two cultures.

Lindo gives Waverly a red jade tablet for good luck, symbolizing her Chinese...