I Stand Here Ironing v. Rules of the Game

There are many similarities and differences between Olsen’s, I Stand Here Ironing, and Tan’s, Rules of the Game. Some characteristics that can be compared and contrasted are point of view, theme and conflict.

A broad view of each story depicts the relationship between a mother and daughter. Both stories are told in flashback format. However, I Stand Here Ironing actually switches back and forth between the past and the present. Though the broad views of the stories are similar, the narrow views, specifically the point of view from which the stories are told, differ. I Stand Here Ironing is told from the mother’s point of view; whereas, Rules of the Game is from the perspective of the daughter. Even though both stories are told from a different angle, they are both told in the first person.

The theme of parental influence, specifically a mother’s influence, radiates throughout both stories. Additionally, the theme ...