In "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, the falling action occurs after the climax, which is the moment when Lizabeth, in a fit of anger and confusion, destroys Miss Lottie’s marigolds. The climax represents a turning point for Lizabeth, as she grapples with her transition from childhood to adulthood and her understanding of her own emotions.
Following the climax, the falling action involves the aftermath of Lizabeth’s destructive act. She feels a profound sense of regret and shame for what she has done, realizing the significance of the marigolds to Miss Lottie and the beauty they brought into a harsh environment. Lizabeth reflects on her actions, recognizing that her act of cruelty stemmed from her struggle to understand her own feelings of frustration and loss as she faced the challenges of growing up.
Once Miss Lottie’s main conflict is resolved, the story highlights the change in Lizabeth’s perspective. She comes to understand Miss Lottie’s resilience in the face of poverty and difficulty, as well as the importance of hope and beauty in a harsh world. This new understanding marks a significant moment of growth for Lizabeth, as she moves toward a more empathetic view of others.
The other children, including Lizabeth’s peers, are affected as they witness her breaking point and the subsequent fallout. They initially represent the innocence of childhood but are also caught in the cycle of understanding or misunderstanding the complexities of adult emotions. As Lizabeth confronts her own actions and feelings, the children begin to grasp that life is more complicated than they had assumed.
In summary, the falling action of "Marigolds" reflects Lizabeth's internal transformation and the resolution of the conflict between her childish impulses and emerging adult emotions. The actions of Miss Lottie and the responses of the other children contribute to the themes of growth, empathy, and the bittersweet nature of coming of age.
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