Throughout the book we hear Rose Mary’s complaint: “I’m a grown woman now, why can’t I do what I want to do?” (74). At what point can adults do whatever they want, if at all?

In my opinion, Rose Mary, as an adult, can do whatever she likes.... but only if the danger and repurcussions only affect her. The day she had children, she made herself responsible for the safety and well-being of innocents.... innocents who could not yet take care of themselves. A parent's job is to nuture, care for, and protect their young until they're old enough to take care of themselves. Even animals have this basic instinct. To be a parent means to put your own needs and wants aside for your children. Rose Mary and Rex failed terribly, but remember, this is my opinion... your teacher wants yours.