Final answer:
In "Two Kinds," the theme of conflict is present in Jing-mei's internal struggle for self-identity and the external pressure from her mother to become a prodigy, culminating in a piano recital that highlights the tension between personal desires and familial expectations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In "Two Kinds" by Amy Tan, the theme of conflict is intricately developed through the dynamic between the protagonist, Jing-mei, and her mother. This narrative explores both internal and external conflict, as Jing-mei battles with her own sense of identity as well as her mother's expectations for her to become a prodigy. The internal conflict emerges as Jing-mei grapples with the desire to please her mother and her need to assert her individuality. This inner turmoil is expressed when Jing-mei thinks, "I won't let her change me, I promised myself. I won't be what I'm not." An external conflict is evident in the scenes where Jing-mei's mother pushes her into various tests of talent, exemplifying the clash between her mother's aspirations and Jing-mei's resistance. A climactic moment that captures the height of this conflict is during the piano recital when Jing-mei's lack of preparation reflects her rebellion and leads to a pivotal confrontation with her mother. The story's resolution doesn't neatly mend their relationship but suggests an implicit understanding, which symbolizes a mature acknowledgment of their differences and an implicit exploration of the theme – the complexities of a mother-daughter relationship and the struggle for self-actualization within family expectations.