Lives Of Girls And Women Essay

The contrast is quite apparent throughout the story Lives of Girls and Women. She had been brought back to Garnets homestead where he lived with many of his family members. He came from a family that was not as fortunate, and she was able to notice many differences then that of her own lifestyle. The household that Garnet grew up in was run down and in dire need of repairs. She had also been warmed up to by his family members, making her feel comfortable. Both of which are circumstances and situations that she had not experienced before.

When she arrived at the house she noticed many differences as she arrived. In town she had known many of the houses to be open and displayed, however, out at the end of Jericho Valley his family was quite pleased to have a house that was cool in the summer and protected in the winter. As they approached the house there were groups of chickens that fluttered and dogs that ran up to the truck. Once inside she noticed that the linoleum in the kitchen had been worn, and the high water marks on the walls from the floods, much different then what her family would have accepted.

It is apparent that throughout the story there is a contrast in how she felt when she arrived and later after being a guest in their house. A combination of reasons as to why she had not been opened up to are apparent near the beginning. When she and Garnet showed up the family thought that this was just another girl that he had brought home along with her being uncomfortable and intimidated. The list of girls names that Garnet had engraved in the beam was not taken seriously by Garnets family. Once Garnets mother heard him say I think Ive come to the end, she realized that this woman means more to him then the others had. Upon hearing this statement, their actions changed. His mother showed her concerns of spoiling her dress after asking what she could do for dinner, revealing she had changed.

Throughout the short story she notices many differences in their lifestyles, each one shows a contrast between her life and that of Garnets. Even though she observed many differences she had not been exposed to these contrasts, opening herself up to a place where she felt comfortable and happy.