Question

The main characters Mariko and Felice break a window while they are playing baseball. They argue back and forth about what to do, but ultimately Mariko wins out by leaving a note for the owner of the house so they can help pay for the damages. The girls wait anxiously to hear from the owner of the house. In the end, the story concludes with a tornado whipping through the area and leveling all of the houses in the city except for the one with the broken window.Which is the best way to interpret how the central conflict was resolved in the story?

Answer 1

The central conflict of the story revolves around the aftermath of Mariko and Felice breaking the window and how they choose to address the situation. The resolution occurs when Mariko takes responsibility for their actions by leaving a note for the owner of the house, demonstrating accountability and a willingness to make amends. This act highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in resolving conflicts.

The ultimate twist—that a tornado destroys all the houses except for the one with the broken window—adds a layer of irony and brings an unexpected conclusion to the conflict. It suggests that sometimes, difficult situations can lead to unforeseen outcomes, and accountability can protect against worse consequences. The broken window, a symbol of their mistake, ironically becomes a source of salvation for that house. This resolution emphasizes themes of responsibility, the unpredictability of life, and the idea that taking the right actions can lead to positive outcomes, even in challenging circumstances.