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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Motifs
Explanation and Analysis—Relentless Grief:
Disruptive grief is a motif in the novel, occurring as regularly in Junior's life as the standard milestones of growing up. The people and pets Junior and his family loves always seem to be dying in unexpected and horrible but nonetheless anticlimactic ways. By Chapter 2, Junior's dog, Oscar, is sick. A vet may be able to help him, but the day-in, day-out reality of the household budget gets in the way of life-saving measures. Junior's father has to shoot Oscar to put him out of his misery.
Related Themes:
Chapter 12 - Slouching Toward Thanksgiving
Explanation and Analysis—Mary's Romance Novels:
Romance novels (and Junior's drawings of them) are a motif in the novel, emphasizing Mary as a foil for Junior. For example, after Mary informs the family that she has run away and gotten married, Junior remarks on her choice:
Unlock with LitCharts A+How weird is that? It’s almost romantic.
And then I realized that my sister was trying to LIVE a romance novel.
Man, that takes courage and imagination. Well, it also took some degree of mental illness, too, but I was suddenly happy for her.
And a little scared.
Related Themes:
