In "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, the story reaches its resolution as the protagonist, Lizabeth, comes to a moment of self-realization and understanding. After an impulsive act of destruction, where she tears down Miss Lottie’s marigolds, Lizabeth reflects on her actions and what they represent.
Miss Lottie, who takes great pride in her marigolds, has created a beautiful garden in a place that is otherwise bleak and impoverished. When Lizabeth destroys the marigolds, she is overwhelmed by a mix of emotions, including anger, frustration, and confusion as she transitions from childhood to adulthood.
At the end of the story, Lizabeth recognizes the significance of Miss Lottie’s flowers, understanding that they symbolize hope, beauty, and the capacity to create joy in difficult circumstances. She sees Miss Lottie not just as a poor, eccentric woman but as someone who dreams and strives for beauty amid hardship. The story concludes with Lizabeth accepting the complexity of life and growing from her experience, symbolizing her shift from innocence to a deeper understanding of empathy and maturity.
Miss Lottie, in this resolution, embodies resilience. Although she is hurt by Lizabeth's actions, she continues to tend to her marigolds, demonstrating her strength and her commitment to maintaining beauty in her life despite challenges. This interaction serves as a catalyst for Lizabeth’s transformation and a poignant reflection on compassion and understanding in the human experience.
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