Poster: Is There Any Real Domination in the Relationship Between Song Liling and René Gallimard?

CCLC2204 Literary Appreciation
Professor: Dr. Sidney Chan

In M. Butterfly (Hwang, 1995), the power struggle seems to be between Song and
Gallimard, but in fact neither of them can escape the dominance of culture and society.

René Gallimard dominates Song Liling

Gallimard’s sense of dominance over Song Liling stems from his Western upbringing and beliefs, positioning him as culturally superior. His sexual desires further enhance this perceived control, as he objectifies Song Liling as an exotic and submissive woman, projecting his fantasies onto their relationship. This dynamic is symbolized by Gallimard’s reference to Song as “Butterfly”, drawing parallels to the opera Madama Butterfly. Through this sexual relationship, Gallimard’s belief in his superiority and authority over Song Liling is reinforced, illustrating the intertwining of cultural, sexual, and power dynamics in their interactions.

Song Liling dominates René Gallimard

Despite Gallimard’s belief that he holds power in their relationship, it is more than clear that Song is the one who exerts a significant amount of control and dominance over René Gallimard from beginning to end. Song strategically manipulates Gallimard by conforming to his stereotypes and desires, portraying an ideal submissive and obedient woman to gain his trust and influence his decisions. In the end, Gallimard even photographed sensitive documents for Song without any question (Act Three, Scene One). Moreover, Song capitalizes on Gallimard’s emotional vulnerabilities and insecurities to assert control and manipulate his actions in alignment with Song’s plan. In a crisis where allimard wants to see Song naked (Act Two, Scene Six), she restates her shame and lets Gallimard strip her. As her words later (Act Two, Scene Seven), “All he wants is for her to submit, and once her submits, a man always ready to become ‘generous’. ” Through adeptly appealing to Gallimard’s yearnings for love and intimacy, Song effectively wields emotional influence over Gallimard, solidifying their dominance in the relationship.

Song Liling and René Gallimard dominated by the times

Gallimard was influenced by Western ideals of masculinity, while Song utilized traditional Chinese femininity. In their relationship, they are both constrained by cultural norms. Their relationship is constrained by not only cultural dynamics but also societal pressures. Song worked for the spy agency and was subsequently persecuted due to homosexuality. Also driven by social influences, Song and Gallimard were separated: Song being used for political purposes and Gallimard being sacrificed by his superior. Despite engaging in personal power struggles, both characters are ultimately bound by the dominance of culture and society, underscoring the individual’s helplessness in the face of societal and cultural constraints.