Write a brief introduction that describes the status of Chinese immigrants in the nineteenth and early twentieth
centuries. Contextualize the Spring Fragrance family, noting their status in their community in relationship to
these restrictions. Think about their individual perspectives as well as collective identity. At the end of the
introduction, write a thesis that establishes your interpretation of the ending of the short story.
Provide a close reading of the Spring Fragrances’ reunion. If we think of a relationship as durable and
longstanding as theirs as full of compromise, what has each party gained or lost in their reunion in Seattle?
What does the pendant represent to each party? What does it communicate to the reader about their personal
relationship, as well as their relationship to their adopted homeland in the U.S.?