why is the novel tittle My Antonia?

My Antonia was the title to Jim's memoir during the introduction of the book. Instead of titling it simply "Antonia", Jim decides to change it to "My Antonia". These words are echoed throughout the book. I think there is a sense of love for Antonia rather than possession. Antonia becomes a central feminine figure in Jim's life. She represents a type of femininity that fits into any of the wonderful qualities that women have,

"I'd have liked to have you for a sweetheart, or a wife, or my mother or my sister – anything that a woman can be to a man. The idea of you is a part of my mind. You influence my likes and dislikes, all my tastes, hundreds of times when I don't realize it. You really are a part of me..."

Antonia hence becomes a part of Jim's identity, she helped shape Jim into the man he has become. Really the title represents a tribute to Antonia.