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Bitter Melon Character Analysis

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Bitter Melon by Cara Chow revolves around Frances, the protagonist, who is constantly shamed and abused by her mother. Frances' character traits at the beginning of the novel can be symbolized through several objects. A broken mirror represents Frances as self-loathing because if a person looks into one, their reflection is broken. In the story Frances can't help but to think about how flawed her knowledge and physical appearance is when her mother is around, constantly criticizing her. A teacup is something valuable that easily tips over and breaks, Frances moves into a direction her mother forces her to even though she doesn't want to. For example, when Frances is placed on a devastating diet, it's because her mother has shoved her that way and her refusal to oppose it. Her mother has also adapted the habit of neglecting the things she does, leaving Frances to feel unappreciated like a button. A button comes in very handy, however it's acknowledgment is inexistent until it falls out. …show more content…

A band aid serves to preserve a wound, however, Frances' excuses can not heal her pain. Throughout the story, Frances' is manipulated by her mother to do as she pleases. An object that can symbolize this is a cross controller used to move marionettes, her mother's controller is fear and abuse. Handcuffs represent how Frances is imprisoned by her mother's expectations to attend Berkeley, become a doctor and care for her. She's not free to her own

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