Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle” is a short story that explores the relationship between a mother and daughter and the cultural traditions that bind them. Through the use of symbolism, Tan highlights the importance of these traditions and the emotional impact they can have on individuals. This article provides a summary of the story and delves into the various symbols used by Tan to convey its themes.
Background Information
Amy Tan is a renowned American author who is best known for her works that explore the complexities of the Chinese-American experience. Born in Oakland, California in 1952, Tan grew up in a household that was deeply influenced by her mother’s Chinese heritage. This upbringing would later serve as the inspiration for many of her literary works, including her short story “The Red Candle.” Published in 1995, “The Red Candle” is a poignant tale that explores the themes of cultural identity, family dynamics, and the power of tradition. Through her use of vivid imagery and symbolism, Tan creates a story that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The Red Candle
In Amy Tan’s short story “The Red Candle,” the titular object serves as a powerful symbol of both tradition and rebellion. The candle, which is lit every year on the protagonist’s deceased mother’s birthday, represents the family’s adherence to Chinese customs and the importance of honoring ancestors. However, the protagonist’s decision to blow out the candle before it burns down to the end symbolizes her rejection of these traditions and her desire to break free from the expectations placed upon her by her family and culture. Through the use of the red candle, Tan explores the complex relationship between tradition and individuality, and the ways in which these forces can both unite and divide families.
The Main Character
The main character in Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle” is a young girl named Ying-ying. She is described as being “small and delicate” with “long, black hair that hung straight down her back.” Ying-ying is also very shy and introverted, often keeping to herself and avoiding social situations. However, she is also very observant and perceptive, noticing things that others might miss. Throughout the story, Ying-ying struggles with her identity and her place in the world, but ultimately finds a sense of belonging through her connection to her family and her cultural heritage.
The Setting
The setting of Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle” plays a crucial role in the story’s symbolism. The story takes place in San Francisco’s Chinatown, a neighborhood that is steeped in Chinese culture and tradition. The protagonist, Bing, is a young Chinese-American girl who is struggling to find her place in the world. She is caught between two cultures, and the setting of Chinatown serves as a physical representation of this conflict. The narrow streets, crowded shops, and bustling markets all serve to highlight the clash between Bing’s American identity and her Chinese heritage. Additionally, the red candle that Bing’s mother gives her serves as a symbol of the family’s Chinese traditions and the importance of honoring one’s ancestors. The setting of “The Red Candle” is not just a backdrop for the story, but an integral part of its meaning and message.
The Symbolism of the Red Candle
The red candle is a powerful symbol in Amy Tan’s short story, “The Red Candle.” It represents the protagonist’s connection to her Chinese heritage and the sacrifices her ancestors made for her. The candle also symbolizes the protagonist’s desire to honor her ancestors and keep their traditions alive. Through the use of the red candle, Tan highlights the importance of cultural heritage and the need to preserve it for future generations. The symbolism of the red candle is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and struggles of those who came before us and the responsibility we have to honor their legacy.
The Symbolism of the Dragon
The dragon is a powerful and revered symbol in many cultures, including Chinese culture. In Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle,” the dragon is used as a symbol of strength and protection. The protagonist, Bing, is compared to a dragon by his mother, who tells him that he has the same strength and power as the mythical creature. This comparison is significant because it shows that Bing is capable of overcoming the obstacles in his life and protecting his family. The dragon is also a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture, which is why Bing’s mother gives him a red candle with a dragon on it. The candle represents the hope that Bing will have a successful future and bring good fortune to his family. Overall, the dragon symbolizes power, protection, and good luck in “The Red Candle.”
The Symbolism of the Phoenix
The phoenix is a mythical bird that has been used as a symbol in various cultures throughout history. In Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle,” the phoenix represents the idea of rebirth and renewal. The protagonist, Ming, is compared to a phoenix when she overcomes her fear and stands up to her abusive husband. Just as the phoenix rises from its own ashes, Ming is able to rise above her difficult circumstances and start anew. The symbolism of the phoenix in this story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility for growth and transformation.
The Symbolism of the Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year is a time of great significance for the Chinese people. It is a time for family reunions, feasting, and the exchange of gifts. But beyond these festivities, the Chinese New Year is also steeped in symbolism. Each year is associated with an animal from the Chinese zodiac, and this animal is believed to influence the fortunes of those born in that year. In addition, there are many other symbols and traditions associated with the Chinese New Year, each with its own meaning and significance. In Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle,” we see how these symbols and traditions play a role in the lives of Chinese families, and how they can be used to bring people together and strengthen family bonds.
The Theme of Tradition
In Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle,” the theme of tradition is prevalent throughout the story. The main character, Bing, is torn between her desire to assimilate into American culture and her obligation to uphold her family’s Chinese traditions. This conflict is exemplified through the symbolism of the red candle, which represents the importance of honoring one’s ancestors and the sacrifices they made for their family. Bing’s mother insists on lighting the red candle during the Chinese New Year, despite Bing’s reluctance to participate. This symbolizes the tension between Bing’s desire for independence and her obligation to respect her family’s traditions. Ultimately, Bing comes to understand the significance of the red candle and the importance of honoring her family’s heritage. The theme of tradition in “The Red Candle” highlights the struggle many individuals face when trying to balance their cultural identity with their desire for independence.
The Theme of Family
In Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle,” the theme of family is a prominent motif throughout the story. The protagonist, Ming, is a young girl who is struggling to find her place in her family. She feels overshadowed by her older sister, who is the favorite child, and she longs for her mother’s attention and affection. Ming’s relationship with her family is complicated, and it is clear that she is searching for a sense of belonging and acceptance. The red candle, which is a symbol of family unity and tradition, plays a significant role in the story and serves as a reminder of the importance of family ties. Through Ming’s journey, we see the power of family and the impact it can have on one’s sense of self and identity.
The Theme of Sacrifice
In Amy Tan’s short story “The Red Candle,” the theme of sacrifice is prevalent throughout the narrative. The protagonist, Liling, is forced to make a sacrifice in order to fulfill her duty to her family and culture. She must give up her own desires and dreams in order to marry a man chosen by her family. This sacrifice is not only personal but also cultural, as it represents the traditional expectations placed on women in Chinese society. The red candle, a symbol of sacrifice and devotion, is used throughout the story to represent Liling’s struggle to reconcile her own desires with the expectations of her family and culture. Through Liling’s sacrifice, Tan highlights the complexities of cultural expectations and the sacrifices that individuals must make in order to fulfill their duties to their families and communities.
The Theme of Cultural Identity
In Amy Tan’s short story “The Red Candle,” the theme of cultural identity is prevalent throughout the narrative. The protagonist, Ming, struggles with her Chinese heritage and the expectations placed upon her by her family. She feels torn between her desire to assimilate into American culture and her duty to uphold her family’s traditions. This conflict is exemplified through the symbolism of the red candle, which represents Ming’s connection to her Chinese roots. As the story progresses, Ming must come to terms with her cultural identity and find a balance between her two worlds. Tan’s exploration of cultural identity in “The Red Candle” highlights the complexities of navigating multiple cultural identities and the importance of embracing one’s heritage.
The Significance of the Title
The title of Amy Tan’s short story, “The Red Candle,” holds significant symbolism throughout the narrative. The red candle represents the main character’s desire for a connection to her Chinese heritage and her struggle to reconcile her American identity with her cultural roots. The candle also serves as a metaphor for the protagonist’s journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. By examining the significance of the title, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and motifs present in the story.
The Author’s Purpose
The author’s purpose in writing “The Red Candle” is to explore the themes of tradition, family, and sacrifice. Through the use of symbolism, Tan highlights the importance of these themes in Chinese culture and the struggles that arise when they clash with Western values. The red candle, for example, represents the sacrifices made by the protagonist’s mother for her family, while the white candle symbolizes the protagonist’s desire for independence and individuality. By unraveling the symbolism in the story, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and personal conflicts faced by the characters.
The Writing Style
Amy Tan’s writing style in “The Red Candle” is characterized by its vivid imagery and use of symbolism. Throughout the story, Tan employs a variety of symbols to convey the themes of tradition, family, and cultural identity. The red candle, for example, represents the protagonist’s connection to her Chinese heritage and the importance of honoring one’s ancestors. Tan’s use of sensory details also adds depth to the story, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the setting and emotions of the characters. Overall, Tan’s writing style in “The Red Candle” is both engaging and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of cultural identity and the importance of tradition.
The Reception of the Story
The reception of Amy Tan’s “The Red Candle” has been mixed, with some readers praising the story’s intricate symbolism and others finding it confusing or overly abstract. Some have criticized the story for being too focused on symbolism at the expense of character development or plot, while others have praised Tan’s ability to weave together multiple layers of meaning in a single narrative. Despite these differing opinions, “The Red Candle” remains a thought-provoking and engaging work of fiction that invites readers to explore the complexities of identity, memory, and cultural heritage.
The Impact of the Story
The impact of “The Red Candle” lies in its ability to convey a powerful message about the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. Through the use of symbolism, Amy Tan explores the themes of tradition, sacrifice, and the struggle for independence. The story resonates with readers who have experienced similar conflicts with their own mothers or daughters, and it offers a glimpse into the cultural traditions that shape these relationships. Ultimately, “The Red Candle” reminds us of the importance of communication and understanding in our relationships with loved ones.