In Amy Tan's poignant short story "Two Kinds," the narrative is enriched by several instances of internal conflict

In Amy Tan's poignant short story "Two Kinds," the narrative is enriched by several instances of internal conflict that add depth and complexity. Through the main character's struggle with her identity and her relationship with her mother, these conflicts emerge, shaping her journey of self-discovery. This essay aims to delve into two excerpts from the story that serve as prime examples of internal conflict, shedding light on the protagonist's inner turmoil and the profound impact it has on her life.

The first excerpt that exemplifies internal conflict occurs early in the story when the young protagonist is confronted with the opportunity to become a child prodigy.

Driven by her own unfulfilled dreams, her mother insists that she possesses exceptional talent and should relentlessly pursue it. However, the protagonist finds herself torn between her mother's expectations and her own desires. In this excerpt, she reflects on her mother's relentless push, acknowledging, "I had no talent. I could only play a few notes.

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It was not a prodigy act, nor a fabulous transformation, but a lie." This internal conflict arises from the dissonance between her mother's high expectations and her own awareness of her limitations. She grapples with the pressure to conform to her mother's aspirations while simultaneously questioning her own abilities. Throughout the story, this conflict becomes a central theme as the protagonist strives to find her own identity amidst external pressures.

The second excerpt that exemplifies internal conflict takes place during the pivotal piano recital, a crucial moment in the protagonist's life.

As she performs on stage, she becomes overwhelmed by self-doubt and anxiety. In this excerpt, the protagonist describes her emotional state: "I saw the two halves tearing away from each other—the left hand feeling for the starting note, the right waiting to come in, and they did not reach each other." This internal conflict arises from the protagonist's fear of failure and the immense pressure she feels to live up to her mother's expectations. The physical sensation of the "two halves tearing away" symbolizes her inner struggle and the disconnect she feels between her own desires and her mother's ambitions. The conflict intensifies as the protagonist grapples with her own feelings of inadequacy and the fear of disappointing her mother.

Both of these excerpts vividly demonstrate the internal conflicts that shape the protagonist's journey in "Two Kinds." They portray the tension between her own desires and her mother's expectations, highlighting the emotional turmoil she experiences while navigating her identity. These internal conflicts ultimately lead her to confront and redefine her relationship with her mother, as well as her understanding of herself. Amy Tan's skillful portrayal of these internal struggles adds depth and resonance to the story, offering readers a compelling exploration of the complexities of self-discovery and the pursuit of personal dreams.