Summary

The chapter begins with an email exchange between George, reading Phoenix’s manuscript about her life, and Phoenix herself, who has been visiting Auntie Mei every day in China. Apparently, she has learned that the two had at least 14 half-siblings, which she was never aware of.

Part 1 of the chapter sees Mother confronting the Revolutionary Committee at Father’s old work because their payout to her was so meager. This earns them a little more money. Meanwhile, Mother works odd jobs to make more money.

Part 2 sees the introduction of Meng Long, an English teacher of Yuan Feng’s. Yuan Feng seems to have a big crush on her teacher. She sees him as “a brother….father…[and] lover” (96).

Part 3 describes Meng Long’s background. He is arbitrarily chosen to be a member of the “Rightist Movement” by the Anti-Rightist Movement, as a...