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. Instead, she speaks in shorter phrases that leave some words out, like “Was smash flat” to indicate that a girl got hit and run over by a car. Waverly says on the first page of the story that “We lived in San Francisco’s Chinatown. Like most of the other Chinese children who played in the back alleys . . . I didn’t think we were poor.” These examples are evidence of the Jong family’s immigration from China to California and their current residence in an immigrant-centered community.
Lindo’s Chinese background definitely impacts her interaction with her children, namely her “daily truth” that “she could help [Waverly and her brothers] rise above [their] circumstances.” This quotation acknowledges that Lindo is aware of and actively seeking opportunities for her children to live a proverbial “better life.” Because of her focus on her children’s success in the United States, home of the American dream, Lindo becomes very invested in Waverly’s rise in the chess world. When Waverly graces the cover of Life, she is also “touted as the Great American Hope.” She has grown up American and has earned her place in the land of opportunity. Lindo clearly sees chess as the path that will put her child on the road to a good life. Lindo takes pride in her daughter’s accomplishments, even though that embarrasses Waverly deeply. At the same time, Lindo also expresses some suspicion and disdain for “American rules” and American culture, calling Americans lazy at one point. She both takes great pride in her Chinese roots and wants her children to achieve American success. Lindo and her hopes for Waverly thus exemplify the paradoxical nature of the immigrant experience.
Expert Q&A
What did Waverley mean by her quote in "The Rules of the Game" about rising above circumstances?
In "The Rules of the Game," Waverley's quote about rising above circumstances refers to overcoming the challenges faced by her Chinese migrant family in America. Despite not having the same advantages as their peers, Waverley's mother encourages her children to succeed by helping them to excel, exemplified by Waverley's mastery of chess.
What "American rules" does Waverly's family adopt in "Rules of the Game"?
Waverly's family adopts "American rules" by embracing the pursuit of the American Dream, believing that hard work can lead to success. They give their children American names, attend church, and celebrate Christmas. Waverly participates in chess tournaments, prioritizing her practice over traditional chores, which shifts gender roles. This reflects American values of independence and individual achievement, contrasting with traditional Chinese expectations of family honor and duty.
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