Here's how the scenario unfolds:
* Tan's mother goes to see the doctor about a medical issue.
* The doctor is dismissive and rude to her mother, likely due to her broken English.
* When Tan arrives, the doctor suddenly becomes incredibly polite and attentive. He even switches his communication style, likely assuming Tan is a more capable patient because she speaks English fluently and without a noticeable accent.
This encounter highlights the inherent bias and prejudice that often arises from language barriers. It exposes how non-native speakers can be marginalized and mistreated based on their language skills.
This situation serves as a powerful example in Tan's essay to illustrate the impact of "Mother Tongue" – the language we speak, and how it can shape our interactions and perceptions in society.