In part, this novel's richness comes from its ability to make the specific general. We see this illustrated best in Jing-mei's experiences. Jing-mei, like many people, is satisfied with less than "best quality." She is so self-effacing that she sacrifices for others without even thinking about her actions. Not being fond of crab, she nonetheless, automatically, reaches for the least desirable crab — the one with the missing leg — during the New Year's dinner. She does not think herself worthy of the best. Clearly, however, this admirable selflessness also has a destructive side. Jing-mei is easily humiliated by those who possess a greater deal of self-confidence — such as her childhood friend Waverly Jong. During Jing-mei's childhood, her mother had tried to make her into a child prodigy like Waverly, the childhood chess champion. All of Mrs. Woo's efforts failed. Waverly became a successful tax accountant for a major firm; Jing-mei, a copywriter for a small advertising firm. Jing-mei is awed by Waverly's great economic success. She sees this material success as proof of Waverly's greater worth as a person.
Jing-mei's mother does not value Waverly so highly. She sees Waverly as a crab, scuttling in a rut. "Why you want to follow behind her, chasing her words?" Mrs. Woo scolds. "She is like this crab . . . always walking sideways, moving crooked. You can make your legs go the other way." Mrs. Woo believes that her daughter has freedom of choice, the ability to think for herself and go against the tide of convention. Jing-mei, she believes, is a leader — not a follower. Mrs. Woo gives her the jade necklace in order to bequeath this belief to her daughter. This necklace, worn against the skin, will hopefully transfer the family heritage from mother to daughter.
