Family Relationships Have An Effect On The Way We

960 Words4 Pages
Family relationships are those which determine a sense of belonging. These relationships demonstrate the connection between a mother and daughter, a father and son and even a grandchild and grandfather. In “Chinese Cinderella” by Adeline Yen Mah, the write masterfully explores the development of Adeline’s personality due to the influences of other people in her life. Not only had they shaped her personality, but also moulded her character so that she becomes a strong, intelligent and a sensitive individual. Through the negative and positive impacts of her Aunt Baba, father and her step-mother, Niang she is induced to become a more mature and an enthusiastic child, even for her young age. Firstly, certain adults in Adeline’s immediate family, has provided her with the essential psychological needs which were absent due to her mother’s death. Her closest relationship is with her Aunt Baba who lives with her younger brother (Adeline’s father), as she must bow to the wishes of the male head of the household, since she is unmarried. Aunt Baba puts great effort into Adeline’s intellectual abilities and praises all of her academic efforts. She is the only one to truly take notice and acknowledge Adeline for her share as an individual in the family. For most of Adeline’s life, she was made to feel unwanted and unimportant, and furthermore made her hold a low position in her family. It is Aunt Baba who reverently saves all of Adeline’s reports and commendations. ‘As soon as I heard Aunt Baba’s footsteps, I started feeling better immediately’ (page 91). Adeline knows that Aunt Baba is someone who sincerely ‘cares for her’ and ‘believes in’ her, which has thus heartens her to put more effort into her learning. Despite Adeline’s opposition, people like her Aunt make her feel wanted and special. Her influence makes Adeline a more sensitive and caring individual. Secondly,

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