Introduction: The Woman Warrior by Brave Orchid
Although the book The Woman Warrior seems to be written as an autobiography by Maxine Hong Kingston, it begins with a quote from her mother, Brave Orchid, advising her, “You must not tell anyone,” my mother said, “what I am about to tell you” (Kingston 1). The book then concludes with a song from a talk story that her mother tells her. This clearly indicates that the dominating figure in this autobiography is not Maxine Hong Kingston, but her mother. Brave Orchid not only acquires various skills but also endeavors to impart them to her siblings, including the eldest Kingston, so that they can survive in the alien land.
It is true that the cultural shock initially terrifies Maxine, but her resilient nature soon leads her to adapt to the circumstances, just as she did in China when she turned to nursing. Maxine learns laundry and navigates tough circumstances in Stockton, where the very survival of the family is at stake. In the book, Brave Orchid emerges as a caring mother, culturally trained, skilled in survival, hardworking, and a preserver of traditions. She is portrayed as a brave lady who not only dominates as a maternal figure but also plays a crucial role in shaping the family’s fate.
Siblings and The Woman Warrior
Brave Orchid is perhaps aware that her daughters, in particular, need more care. This awareness stems from her experiences in China, where girls were not afforded much significance, as evident from the tragic fate of her father’s sister who took her own life due to an illegitimate child (1). Having faced trials and tribulations herself, Brave Orchid understands that her daughters could face challenges in a new cultural setting.
To ensure the success and well-being of her daughters, she shares different stories with them, including those illustrating the struggles of repressed females, such as her husband’s sister. Brave Orchid is especially attentive to her youngest daughter, who, at only fourteen years old, requires extra care and guidance (32). Her nurturing extends beyond her biological children, as seen in her advice to Moon Orchid about her husband. She encourages Moon Orchid to make her husband feel remorseful for leaving his parents, emphasizing the importance of family unity (71). Brave Orchid further supports Moon Orchid by accompanying her to confront her husband and assert her rights, demonstrating her commitment to the well-being of those around her. In addition to her practical care, Brave Orchid’s storytelling serves as a manifestation of her nurturing nature. Through these stories, she imparts valuable lessons and cultural wisdom to her daughters, contributing to their understanding of life and relationships.
China and The Woman Warrior
Brave Orchid displays remarkable adaptability and resourcefulness. In China, sensing that she cannot succeed in her current circumstances, she promptly secures admission to become a doctor, demonstrating her determination to survive. Her success in this new role reflects her resilience and ability to thrive, even treating her servant with kindness.
Upon reaching the United States with her husband, Brave Orchid recognizes that her medical expertise is not as applicable in the new environment. Undeterred, she takes on various roles, initially working as a tomato picker and later establishing a laundry business. Understanding the need to contribute to the family’s financial stability and support her husband, she embraces different forms of labor. Kingston’s admiration for Brave Orchid as a commendable woman, akin to a scholar, stems from her multifaceted skills and her willingness to do whatever is necessary.
Brave Orchid’s transition to unfamiliar tasks, such as running a laundry, underscores her commitment to providing for her family. It is evident that she undertakes these challenges, even if untrained for them, recognizing the importance of her efforts to complement her husband’s income. The hard work she invests in settling in Stockton highlights her determination to secure a better future for her family, acknowledging that her husband’s sole income would not suffice.
Traditions and The Woman Warrior
Brave Orchid’s role as a preserver of traditions is evident in her storytelling, especially to Kingston, who narrates many of these stories in the book. Through tales of her husband’s sister, her own sister, and mythical figures like Fa Mulan, she passionately imparts the richness of their culture. Recognizing the physical distance from their homeland, she diligently shares these stories daily, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their cultural identity.
Brave Orchid’s commitment to preserving Chinese heritage is further underscored by her actions, such as cutting Kingston’s tongue in childhood to ensure fluency in the language. Nostalgically yearning for the slower pace of time in China, she expresses her deep love for her motherland, stating, “I would still be young if we lived in China” (92). Her concerns extend beyond personal anecdotes to include updates on the political climate in China, such as the Communist onslaughts and the general situation of the people.
Brave Orchid emerges as a brave and intelligent woman in the narrative. She demonstrates courage by taking charge of family matters, confronting her sister’s husband directly, and advising Moon Orchid to leave her husband to avoid trouble. Her use of myths serves as a powerful tool to convey messages and make others understand her perspective. Encouraging her sister to “come out of the dawn” (101) symbolizes her call for liberation, urging Moon Orchid to free herself and her husband, whom she metaphorically refers to as an emperor. In the challenging setting of California, where survival was considered a miracle, Brave Orchid’s resourcefulness and determination shine through in successfully establishing and sustaining her family.
Conclusion: The Woman Warrior
In summary, “The Warrior Woman” appears to focus more on Brave Orchid, Maxine Hong Kingston’s mother, than on Kingston herself. The narrative highlights Brave Orchid’s lifelong dedication and struggles, emphasizing her resilience, bravery, and intelligence. It is not just the story of Kingston growing up in the United States and benefiting from her mother’s efforts; rather, it is a tribute to Brave Orchid’s fierce determination to raise her family, showcasing her ability to adapt and survive in a foreign land while steadfastly preserving her cultural traditions and skills. Kingston pays homage to her mother’s strength and tenacity throughout the book.
Works Cited: The Woman Warrior
Kingston, Maxine Hong. The Woman Warrior. Vintage International. 2010. Print.
Relevant Questions about The Woman Warrior
- How does Maxine Hong Kingston’s portrayal of her mother, Brave Orchid, contribute to the overall theme of cultural preservation and adaptation in “The Woman Warrior”?
- In “The Woman Warrior,” how does Maxine Hong Kingston use storytelling, particularly myths and family anecdotes, to convey the complexities of her Chinese-American identity and the challenges faced by her mother?
- The title “The Woman Warrior” suggests a strong and empowered female figure. How does Maxine Hong Kingston explore the concept of femininity and strength through the characters, especially her mother, in the various stories presented in the book?
