Essay Questions

What do Lily's relationships with her mother and father reveal about her own sense of identity and worth?

Through Lily's relationship with her parents, it is clear that she has very little sense of self-worth as she has difficulty speaking up for herself. Her mother is passive, allowing her husband to abuse her, and Lily follows suit, allowing Ryle to hit her and not standing up for herself. She has come to believe that she deserves to be mistreated and that she is not worth anything. This lack of self-worth is further shown when Lily is unable to think of a single good thing to say about her father at his funeral. Lily's relationship with Atlas also reveals her sense of identity and worth. Although she is initially hesitant to act on her feelings for Atlas, she eventually finds the courage to stand up for herself and pursue a relationship with someone who loves and respects her. The fact that she finds the courage to stand up for herself and break the cycle of abuse is a sign of her growing sense of self.

In what ways does the narrative challenge the traditional portrayal of romantic relationships in literature?

Firstly, it portrays a relationship between Lily and Atlas that is not based on class differences or any other form of social inequality. Lily is a middle-class girl and Atlas is a homeless boy, yet they still manage to form a connection and develop a strong bond. Secondly, the narrative also challenges the traditional portrayal of romantic relationships as being solely based on physical attraction. The story focuses on the mental and emotional connection between Lily and Atlas, and how their relationship is based on mutual understanding and respect. Moreover, it challenges the notion that romantic relationships should always have a "happily ever after" outcome, as Lily's relationship with Ryle ends in divorce. Therefore, challenges the idea that violence in romantic relationships is normal or acceptable, as Lily asserts her agency and chooses to leave Ryle after he abuses her. Finally, it suggests that love does not always have to follow traditional narratives, as Lily finds love once again with Atlas after her experience with Ryle.

How does the ending of the novel reflect Lily's growth in understanding both herself and the complexities of abusive relationships?

The ending of the novel reflects Lily's growth in understanding both herself and the complexities of abusive relationships. Through her experiences with her father and Ryle, she learns that abusive relationships are not always as simple as they appear to be. Despite her father's physical and emotional abuse, Lily still finds it hard to completely hate him. She struggles to accept that his actions are inexcusable since she still loves him and forgives him in the end. Similarly, despite Ryle's possessive and violent behavior, Lily is still drawn to him and struggles to let go. Throughout the novel, Lily learns that abusive relationships are often more complicated than they appear to be and how difficult it is to break away from them. She eventually manages to break away from Ryle and finds solace in the arms of Atlas, who loves her unconditionally and helps her know true love. In the end, Lily's growth in understanding both herself and the complexities of abusive relationships allows her to take control of her life and find happiness.