Marigolds

3D Narrative Writing: Marigolds Retelling

Dialogue:

As the children played outside, Miss Lottie tended to her marigolds, her vibrant flowers contrasting with the dusty landscape. Liz and her friends watched from a distance, whispering.

“Why does she take care of those weeds? They don’t even grow properly,” one child snickered.

Liz frowned, feeling an odd connection to the old woman. She approached Miss Lottie. “Why do you plant marigolds, Miss Lottie? They’re so… bright and cheerful.”

Miss Lottie looked up, a warm smile crossing her face. “Because, my dear, the world needs a touch of color among all the brown. They remind me that beauty exists, even in hard times.”

“Do you think they will grow this year?” Liz asked, curiosity shining in her eyes.

“If I tend to them and believe, they will,” Miss Lottie replied, her voice firm yet kind.

Description:

How?
Miss Lottie nurtures her marigolds with love and care, even in the face of adversity. The flowers are tended by her hands, which are worn but capable, as she waters them daily and pulls the weeds that threaten to overshadow their beauty.

What kind?
The marigolds are a vivid orange and yellow, vibrant against the dusty, browning backdrop of the children’s neighborhood. They stand tall and proud, each bloom a testament to resilience and vitality, symbolizing hope amidst pain and hardship.

Why?
Miss Lottie plants her marigolds to bring beauty to a world filled with desolation and to reflect her own inner strength. They serve as a reminder to her and the community—particularly to Liz and the other children—that despite struggles, there is room for joy and color.

Details:

In retelling the story, some key details to include are:

• Miss Lottie's modest home and the barren landscape surrounding it contrasting her vibrant garden.
• The children's initial mockery of Miss Lottie and her flowers, illustrating their youthful perspective on beauty and purpose.
• Liz's growing realization of the importance of Miss Lottie’s marigolds, marking a pivotal moment of empathy in her understanding of the older woman’s struggles.
• The transformation of Liz’s character as she learns to appreciate beauty and resilience in unexpected places.
• The overarching theme of compassion, growth, and the loss of innocence, emphasizing the impact of Miss Lottie's care and the children’s evolving perspective on hardship and beauty.