The writer’s argument that the teenagers in the Girl and A & P experience varying forms of coming to age are valid. In the first instance, the girl’s mother requires her to follow a specific guideline that she deems appropriate for women. The writer does not agree with this statement, an argument I believe is accurate as individuals differ, and the assumption that they should behave in a certain way is flawed. Sam’s boss also illustrates this mentality as he criticizes the girls who come into his store. It is important to note that the two adults’ mentality of conformity is not shared by everyone, as indicated by Queenie’s mother as she has seen how they are dressed, “…they just came to get some snacks that her mom ordered them to get.” (Updike & Perkins, 2002)
“… always squeeze bread to make sure it’s fresh, but what if the baker won’t let me feel the bread?; you mean to say that after all, you are going to be the kind of woman who the baker won’t let near the bread?” (Gale). I believe this is a powerful sentiment that mirrors the writer’s thoughts on the Girl and Sam’s dilemmas. They are required to assume different tasks, those of adults but do not know how to do so. Sam is immediately afraid for his future after quitting his job while the Girl wonders if the baker would let her squeeze the bread while she has never been given such a task before, signaling the confusing transition from adolescence to adulthood.
I agree with the writer’s analysis of Volar as they illustrate a fundamental fact, while stories can elicit emotion, maturity allows someone to perceive the reality of pursuing a dream rather than relying on an improbable solution to alter reality.
The writer’s conclusion of their character as individualistic and collectivistic is accurate given their chosen stances. While it is important to rely on yourself for most issues, people tend to lean on each other for group tasks. However, compromise is a double-edged sword that could harm or help one’s cause.
Every stance taken by the writer conforms to their individualistic nature. However, while confrontation may help people alleviate an argument, compromise is sometimes necessary, but it may also cause friction. I believe that one can only rely on themselves; nonetheless, as a collective society, it is vital to seek others’ input to provide a broader picture as others may also have accurate takes on an issue.
References
Top of Form
Gale. (n.d.). Study guide for Jamaica Kincaid’s “girl.”. Detroit: Gale, Cengage Learning.
Updike, J., & Perkins, W. (2002). “A & p”. Thomson Heinle.