Themes: Coming of Age

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In "A&P," the theme of coming of age is central to the story. Sammy, a teenage cashier, experiences a pivotal moment that marks his transition from adolescence to adulthood. The narrative captures Sammy's impulsive decision to quit his job in defense of three girls who are reprimanded for their attire. This act, though seemingly trivial, signifies a deeper personal growth and a step towards independence.

The conflict between Sammy and his supervisor, Lengel, highlights the coming of age theme. When Lengel confronts the girls for their inappropriate dress, Sammy's decision to quit becomes a symbolic gesture of rebellion. Despite the triviality of the situation, Sammy's choice reflects his desire to break free from societal norms and align himself with a more liberated world. This moment is crucial for Sammy as it helps him define his own identity.

Sammy's actions are driven by a mix of youthful bravado and a desire to impress the girls, particularly "Queenie." His decision to stand up to Lengel and quit his job is an impulsive act of defiance. However, this decision also marks a painful entry into adulthood. Sammy expects admiration from the girls but finds himself alone, realizing the complexities of adult life and the consequences of his actions.

Updike uses various literary elements to portray Sammy's coming of age. Dialogue reveals the personalities of the characters and underscores Sammy's internal conflict. The irony in Sammy's actions—quitting his job to impress the girls who are no longer present—emphasizes his naivety. Additionally, the setting in a beach town supermarket adds a satirical layer, questioning societal norms and expectations.

"We want you decently dressed when you come in here."

Sammy's evolution from a bored teenager to someone who takes a stand against authority is a classic coming of age journey. His impulsive decision, though misguided, is a significant step in his personal growth, marking his transition into the complexities of adult life.

Expert Q&A

Sammy's Character Growth and Analysis in John Updike's "A&P"

In John Updike's "A&P," Sammy undergoes significant character growth, marked by two epiphanies. Initially, he impulsively quits his job to protest his boss's treatment of three girls, seeking to impress them. However, he quickly realizes the gravity of his decision and the harsh realities of life, as his gesture goes unnoticed. Sammy's journey from a self-centered, immature youth to a more self-aware individual highlights his transition into adulthood, acknowledging the complexities and challenges he will face in the future.

What does Sammy's comment about the world being hard in "A & P" signify?

He walks across a threshold, literally and figurative, from one life into a another.

How does "A & P" by John Updike work as an initiation story?

"A & P" by John Updike functions as an initiation story by depicting Sammy's transition from adolescence to adulthood. When Sammy quits his job in defense of three girls criticized for their attire, he experiences a significant change in self-awareness and understanding of the world. This decision marks a rite of passage, as Sammy realizes the consequences of his actions and gains a new perspective on life's difficulties, suggesting a permanent, life-altering impact.

How is the theme of coming of age portrayed in John Updike's short story "A & P"?

In John Updike's short story "A & P", the teenage cashier, Sammy, bravely stands up to his manager, Lengel, who embarrasses three teenage girls wearing bathing suits in the grocery store. Sammy is instantly attracted to the leader of the three girls, who he names Queenie, and watches them as they walk through the aisles looking for Kingfish Fancy Herring Snacks in Pure Sour Cream. When the girls go to check out their items, Lengel approaches them and begins to rebuke them for dressing inappropriately in his store. Lengel embarrasses the girls for wearing their bathing suits, and Sammy comes to their defense by quitting his job.
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