Granny Lin

Lin Mei, or Granny Lin, is the protagonist of “Extra,” the story that begins Li’s story collection, and is introduced to the reader having just been retired from the Beijing Red Star Garment Factory. Although the official documents do not say so, Granny Lin is aware that she will not receive her pension because the factory has gone bankrupt. While Granny Lin plans to stretch her savings as long as she can, her friend, Auntie Wang, suggests Granny Lin marry an older man and act as his caretaker so she can inherit some money when he dies. Granny Lin was never married and is originally dubious of the plan, but ultimately goes along with Auntie Wang, who reminds Granny Lin that an older woman with no children, such as herself, is much preferred for a caretaker and wife than younger women who just “steal money” (6).

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