Now I was a tiger that neither pounced nor lay waiting between the trees. I became an unseen spirit.
The quote reflects a transformation of identity and the struggle between action and passivity. The imagery of a tiger suggests a powerful and fierce nature, yet the protagonist chooses to neither leap into action nor remain dormant. This duality conveys feelings of alienation and introspection, highlighting a complex emotional state.
Additionally, the reference to becoming an "unseen spirit" signifies a sense of invisibility and detachment from both oneself and the surrounding world. This change emphasizes the internal battles faced by the character and illustrates the themes of disconnection and self-discovery that permeate Amy Tan's "The Joy Luck Club."
