Deception as Means of Control

The theme of deception being an instrument of the Chairman’s power pervades the story, and Mei’s life is affected by it. The story demonstrates various aspects of deception manifesting in the People’s Republic. The villagers are deceived into accepting their poverty; the president is deceived into trusting Mei; Mei herself is deceived into trusting the Chairman. The reader should focus on this theme because it demonstrates the flawed quality of life Mei realizes is forced upon people by the Chairman.

Prior to living in the Forbidden City, Mei lives in an impoverished village. People starve and she – like other villagers – lives in a cramped hut with her whole family. She and the other villages tolerate this because they believe in the Chairman’s promise that all sacrifice is for equality amongst the Republic. The deception is unveiled immediately once...