In the short story "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, the rising action centers around the main character, Lizabeth, as she navigates the complexities of childhood and the transition into adolescence. The rising action includes the interactions between Lizabeth, her peers, and Miss Lottie, who is a pivotal figure in the story.
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First Interaction and Observations: The story begins with Lizabeth reflecting on her past experiences in her impoverished community, particularly her interactions with Miss Lottie, who is known for her beautiful marigolds. The first significant interaction occurs when Lizabeth and the other children taunt Miss Lottie, highlighting the innocence yet cruelty of childhood. Miss Lottie observes the children and comments on their behavior, suggesting her concerns about their lack of empathy and understanding.
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Miss Lottie's Concerns: Miss Lottie is worried about the loss of innocence and the harshness with which the children treat her. She sees the beauty in her marigolds as a representation of hope and resilience amidst the struggles of life, and she wishes for the children to appreciate that beauty instead of engaging in hurtful behaviors. Miss Lottie likely thinks about how her efforts to create something beautiful are often met with scorn, reflecting a deeper concern for the children’s character and their understanding of the complexities of life.
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Lizabeth's Perspective During the Incident: As Lizabeth grapples with her emotions, she experiences a conflict between childhood innocence and the emerging awareness of harsh realities. The incident where she destroys Miss Lottie's marigolds marks a critical point in Lizabeth's development. She feels a mix of frustration, confusion, and a desire to assert herself as she transitions into adulthood. In that moment of impulsiveness, Lizabeth’s feelings are raw; she is teetering on the edge of understanding the complexities of compassion and human dignity but is still weighed down by the innocence of childhood.
Overall, the rising action builds tension as Lizabeth’s inner turmoil escalates, leading to the climactic moment when she rebels against her environment, ultimately foreshadowing her journey towards maturity and self-discovery. Through the lens of Miss Lottie’s concerns and Lizabeth’s actions, the story explores themes of empathy, loss, and the struggle to find beauty amidst hardship.