In "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, the main problem that drives the story is the transition from childhood to adulthood, particularly the loss of innocence and the struggle to find identity and understanding in a harsh environment. The protagonist, Lizabeth, grapples with her emotions and the complexities of growing up in a setting marked by poverty and social strife. This theme is central to Lizabeth's internal conflict and her interactions with her family and the world around her.
The inciting incident of the story occurs when Lizabeth, in a moment of frustration and confusion, destroys the marigolds that Miss Lottie, an elderly woman in the community, has carefully cultivated. This act of destruction symbolizes Lizabeth's struggle with her own emotions and marks a pivotal moment in her journey toward understanding the complexities of life, empathy, and the loss of innocence. This event sets off a chain reaction of reflections and realizations for Lizabeth, leading her to confront her feelings about herself and her environment.
1 answer