Think of the topic of fate and destiny. There are various instances in the novel in which the gods are viewed as central to the fate of man. They are entrusted to care for the land and harvest. How is this belief challenged in the novel? How does Wang Lung's relationship to the gods change throughout the novel, and why does it change?
At the beginning of the novel Wang Lung appears as a very pious and superstitious man, constantly offering incense to the gods to protect his family and his crops. Later, with the famine that forces his family to migrate south, Wang Lung grows angry at the gods and dismisses them.
After he returns to the land and begins to grow wealthy Wang Lung becomes increasingly indifferent towards the gods. In fact, he openly shows his disregard for them, something that Ching cautions him against. However, as a rich man Wang Lung believes that he has control over his own life and does not need to rely on divine intervention and/or protection.
In fact, the only time Wang Lung shows any fear of the gods again is when his first grandson is about to be born. However, after the event transpires there is no more mention of the gods. Worship of the gods is a clear hold-over from the old ways, and as China changes with the revolution and the collapse of the traditional aristocracy, the gods recede somewhat.
