In Amy Tan's "The Joy Luck Club," the character Ying Ying reflects on her life and experiences of concealing her true identity. She describes a sense of being a "small shadow," indicating her feelings of invisibility and the constant effort to remain unnoticed by those around her. This metaphor highlights the struggles many individuals face when they hide aspects of themselves to fit societal expectations or avoid judgement.

The quote emphasizes the theme of self-identity and the impact of cultural pressures on one's personal expression. Ying Ying’s journey reveals the deeper challenges of reconciling her inner self with the exterior persona she presents, illustrating the complexities of authenticity in relationships and the importance of embracing one's true nature.