Themes: Memory
Memory plays a multifaceted role in this narrative, as the main character swings between her present reality and past memories. On one side, Granny Weatherall's memories serve as a source of strength; she feels proud of her life's accomplishments, particularly in overcoming the heartbreak of being "jilted." She treasures those reflective moments when she can "spread out the plan of life and tuck in the edges orderly." Memories of her late husband, John, offer her solace, and she trusts that he would still understand her despite all the changes since his death—"She wouldn't have to explain anything!"
On the other hand, Granny's memories also seem to reopen old emotional wounds and awaken painful recollections she thought she had left behind. Her thoughts about another man in her life, George, disrupt her sense of order and self-esteem, creating a kind of emotional disarray she struggles to eliminate. The thought of her children finding the box of letters from George, which she has kept hidden in her attic for years, causes her to feel "uneasy." At one moment, she even imagines taking the extreme measure of instructing her daughter to find George and "be sure to tell him I forgot him."
Expert Q&A
Which event recalls Granny's anger and sadness, and what message does she have for the person involved?
Granny's anger and sadness are triggered by the memory of being jilted by George at the altar. Her message to George is that she lived a full life without him, despite trying to forget him for sixty years. She wants him to know she moved on, marrying and having a family. The irony, however, is that she hasn't truly forgotten him, indicating the deep impact his abandonment had on her.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.