In these first two chapters, we are immediately introduced to the main theme of the novel — our basic relationship with the earth and how we gain strength and sustenance from it. Wang Lung, the central character of the novel, feels a deep respect for the earth. We discover that his house is made of earth and even his gods before whom he places incense are also made of earth. Thus he gains his food, his shelter, and his religion from the earth. As Pearl Buck notes, everything comes out of the earth, but ultimately everything returns to the earth.
Wang Lung's relationship with the earth is not an intellectual one; instead, it is simple and basic. Wang Lung has "no articulate thought on anything; there was only this perfect sympathy of movement, of turning this earth of theirs over and over to the sun, this earth which formed their home and fed their bodies and made their gods."
Another theme that is introduced is the contrast between the simplicity and innocence of Wang Lung and the luxury, opulence, and decadence of the House of Hwang. For Wang Lung, it is a luxury even to have a bath before he goes for his bride, and he has to measure out each ounce of food so as to have enough to invite a few humble guests into his house. In contrast, when he arrives in town, he is made fun of by the barbers, and he feels uncomfortable and embarrassed at the House of Hwang.
He is taken advantage of by the gateman because of his rough appearance and his lack of knowledge. The reader should keep this scene in mind when Wang Lung later returns with his first-born child and is dressed in a new coat of black cloth. Then he is treated with more respect. Ultimately, one should remember that Wang Lung will become the owner of this house where he once trembled as a rough, uncouth peasant.
