The main character in the novel is Weili. She tells her life story to her daughter, Pearl. Weili is married to a cocky pilot named, Wen Fu, and this marriage has terrible consequences. Later, she leaves him and marries a translator named, Jimmy Louie. Her life is a struggle against all odds. The challenges that she faces in her life, transforms her into a confident and independent woman. Through her own story she wants to express the qualities of courage and positive thinking to her daughter, Pearl
The antagonist in the novel is Wen Fu, the first husband of Weili. He is the man responsible for the depression in Weili’s life. In the early days of marriage, he tries to act like a loving husband to Weili but after a few days he shows this true self. The way he treats his wife is as if she were his toy; does anything he please
The way she lived her life sets morals for her daughter, Pearl. At the age of six years old Weili’s mother left her. She was obligated to go live with her uncle. The way Weili was treated was different to her cousin, Peanut, even though they were the same age. Weili thought marriage to be a better option than staying in Tsungming Island. But a fixed marriage to Wen Fu proves to be disastrous. Her remarriage to Jimmy Louie does not solve her problems either. All the pains Wen Fu caused are now scars in her memories. The character of Weili is that of a determined woman. From an innocent teenager, the incidents transformed her to a bold woman.
The last part of the novel shows Winnie and her daughter Pearl lighting incense sticks. When the smoke rises, so does their hopes. Despite all the sufferings that Winnie faces in her life, she is optimistic in
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