Shirley Temple is an allusion from the first section of The Jade Peony. She is Liang's favourite star. Liang wants to be like Shirley Temple, and imitates her in her dancing, acting, and fashion.
Shirley Temple
Shirley Temple was a famous American actress and singer. She was unique because she was only a child when she was most famous. She appeared in several movies during the 1930s, and at the time was the most famous actress in Hollywood. Her movies were popular, and contained singing, dancing, and acting.
Shirley Temple in
The Jade Peony
Considering Temple was the most famous movie actress during the 1930s, it is normal that the daughter Liang would idolize her. She mimics her dance steps and fashion. One of the best parts of Liang's story is when Liang is trying to impress Poh-Poh with her performance: "Poh-Poh refused to look at me. I took my favourite pose, the one Shirley Temple does with her tiny hands - My goodness! - just before all the grownups praise her for a song well sung, a dance well danced." (33)
Liang's love for Shirley Temple is effective at showing how the children of the family are now being influenced by North American celebrities and less by the traditional Chinese influences. When Poh-Poh refuses to watch Liang, it shows how she looks away from the modern, North American influences. This is a wonderful representation of the way Poh-Poh remains traditional as the family becomes more modern.
While Shirley Temple is the most important allusion in Liang;'s story, there are many more allusions in The Jade Peony.
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