Arnie tries to wake her but discovers that she has died. The children, wanting to protect their mother's dignity, empty their family home of possessions and set it on fire with her in it, burning her to ashes and the house down.
The Question and Answer section for What’s Eating Gilbert Grape is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.
Arnie tries to wake her but discovers that she has died. The children, wanting to protect their mother's dignity, empty their family home of possessions and set it on fire with her in it, burning her to ashes and the house down.
Initially, Gilbert doesn't want to introduce becky to his mother because he is embarrassed by her weight.
The burning of the family home is representative of cleansing and rebirth.