Marigolds by Eugenia Collier what is the Establish the setting (time, place, etc.), mood, characters, etc. what is Ms. Lottie doing that day? How is she feeling? What is going on in her life? at that moment

Answer 1

In "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, the setting is a small, impoverished town during the Great Depression, a time that significantly influences the characters' lives. The primary location is the dusty, dry landscape of rural Maryland, which reflects the harshness of the environment and the challenges faced by the community. The mood throughout the story ranges from nostalgic and reflective to tense and tragic, as it explores themes of poverty, growth, and the loss of innocence.

Key characters include:

• Lizabeth: The story's narrator, a 14-year-old girl grappling with the transition from childhood to adulthood, facing the confusion and emotional turmoil of adolescence.
• Ms. Lottie: An elderly woman who is seen as an eccentric figure in the neighborhood. She is known for her vibrant marigolds that she cultivates despite her difficult circumstances.
• Lizabeth’s father: A symbol of despair, often struggling with the family's poverty.
• Lizabeth's mother: A nurturing presence, trying to maintain stability amidst the challenges of their environment.

On the day that the story focuses on, Ms. Lottie is actively tending to her much-loved marigolds, which stand out in stark contrast to the barren landscape that surrounds them. These flowers represent her hopes and dreams amid her struggles with poverty and isolation. She is feeling a mix of pride and vulnerability, as her marigolds are not just plants but a symbol of her resilience and desire for beauty in a difficult world.

At that moment in her life, Ms. Lottie is facing the hardships characteristic of her situation, yet she finds solace and purpose in nurturing her marigolds. Her emotional state and her commitment to maintaining the beauty of her garden reflect her indomitable spirit and desire to create joy in her life and the lives of those around her, even in the face of adversity.

The pivotal moment occurs when Lizabeth, in a fit of confused rage and adolescence, destroys Ms. Lottie’s marigolds. This act symbolizes not only Lizabeth’s internal struggle but also a confrontation with the complexities of growing up, empathy, and understanding the pain and beauty of life.