" My mother left behind three daughters when she went to America and started a new life. I certainly felt abandoned when my father died of a brain tumour; I felt he had abandoned me to this terrible, volatile mother and I had no protection. "
- Amy Tan

In this heartfelt statement, Amy Tan reflects on the emotional impact of her mother's departure and her father's untimely death. She describes feeling abandoned by both parents: first by her mother who left to start a new life in America, leaving behind three daughters, and later by her father due to his brain tumor that led to his death. These events left her vulnerable and with the sense of lacking protection during challenging times.

The quote delves deeper into complex emotional themes such as loss, isolation, and the lasting impact of parental absence on an individual's life. Tan’s words encapsulate a profound sense of vulnerability and the struggle to find security and stability in the face of significant family upheaval. Her narrative highlights how these early experiences can shape one's perception of relationships and the world at large, influencing their emotional resilience and coping mechanisms throughout life.

Amy Tan is an accomplished American author known for her evocative prose that often explores themes of cultural identity, familial bonds, and personal growth. Born in 1954 to immigrant Chinese parents who settled in California, she has written several best-selling novels including "The Joy Luck Club," which delves into the complex relationships between mothers and daughters from different generations. Her work is celebrated for its rich storytelling and insightful examination of Asian-American experiences.