A Contrast Between Stories of Yen Mah and William Somerset Maugham

Adeline Yen Mah and William Somerset Maugham are two authors who, despite writing in different genres and contexts, explore the complexities of family, personal ambition, and self-discovery in their respective works, Falling Leaves and The Moon and Sixpence. Both stories feature protagonists who navigate their emotional landscapes, leading to profound personal growth, albeit through different narratives and stylistic choices. In this essay, I will analyze the similarities and differences in their storytelling approaches, focusing on structure, tone, theme, and the use of symbolism.

Structural Techniques in Storytelling

Both authors employ unique structural techniques that enhance the emotional depth of their narratives. Yen Mah begins her memoir with a significant event—her father's funeral—rather than adhering to a chronological order. This choice not only captivates the reader's attention but also sets the tone for the familial dynamics that will unfold. For instance, she poignantly illustrates how her stepmother, Niang, manipulates the family narrative, stating, “No one said anything...No one questioned the legitimacy of Niang’s actions.” This opening scene establishes a sense of foreboding that resonates throughout the memoir.

Similarly, Maugham's The Moon and Sixpence eschews chronological narration. Instead, the story is presented through the eyes of the narrator, Crabbe, who reflects on the life of the protagonist, Charles Strickland, after having observed his journey. Maugham starts with an analysis of Strickland’s character, stating, “the greatness of Charles Strickland was authentic,” which invites the reader to delve deeper into Strickland's complexities.

Both authors conclude their stories with significant life events that resonate with the themes of self-discovery and acceptance. Yen Mah ends her memoir with the death of Aunt Baba, her closest confidante, which serves as a catalyst for her ultimate realization of self-acceptance. Maugham, on the other hand, concludes his narrative with a seemingly trivial detail about Royal Natives, which symbolizes Strickland's longing for familial warmth and connection. This cyclical structure in both narratives emphasizes the significance of family and personal growth.

Tonal Variations and Emotional Detachment

The tone in both Falling Leaves and The Moon and Sixpence is marked by a sense of emotional detachment, which serves to highlight the characters' journeys. Yen Mah employs a first-person narrative that conveys her childhood experiences with a calm and reflective tone. For example, she recounts her mother’s death with a dispassionate observation: “The headaches and fevers started three days after I was born...Her condition worsened.” This emotional distance allows readers to engage with the narrative while also feeling the weight of her experiences.

Maugham's use of a detached tone is similarly effective. Through Crabbe's narrative perspective, Maugham explores Strickland’s life with a sense of analytical distance. Even when recounting tragic events, such as the suicide of Blanche, the narrator's tone remains measured: “As lovers, the difference between men and women is that women can love all day long, but men only at times.” This calm reflection on sorrowful events invites readers to contemplate the deeper implications of Strickland’s choices.

Thematic Depth and Symbolism

While both authors explore themes of ambition and familial relationships, their methods of conveying these themes differ significantly. Yen Mah explicitly articulates her themes through chapter titles and Chinese proverbs, creating a framework for understanding her experiences. For example, she titles a chapter after a Chinese proverb: “Falling leaves return to their roots,” which encapsulates the central theme of self-acceptance and the importance of familial bonds.

In contrast, Maugham employs a more implicit approach to theme and symbolism. The title The Moon and Sixpence itself serves as a metaphor for the dichotomy between material wealth and the pursuit of artistic dreams. Strickland’s choice to abandon his family and financial security for the sake of his passion embodies this struggle. The sixpence represents societal expectations and responsibilities, while the moon symbolizes the elusive nature of artistic aspiration.

Below is a comparative table that highlights the key differences and similarities between the two authors in terms of structure, tone, and thematic expression:

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Adeline Yen Mah's Falling Leaves and William Somerset Maugham's The Moon and Sixpence present rich narratives that explore the intricate relationships between family, personal ambition, and self-discovery. Through their unique structural techniques, emotional tones, and thematic expressions, both authors invite readers to reflect on the complexities of human experience. While Yen Mah's explicit use of Chinese proverbs provides a clear framework for understanding her journey, Maugham's implicit symbolism allows for a more nuanced exploration of Strickland's character. Ultimately, both works underscore the importance of personal growth and the enduring influence of family on one’s identity.

References:

• Mah, Adeline Yen. Falling Leaves: The Memoir of an Unwanted Chinese Daughter. Penguin Books, 1997.
• Maugham, William Somerset. The Moon and Sixpence. Heinemann, 1919.