In Eugenia Collier's short story "Marigolds", the themes of poverty, adolescence and the loss of innocence are featured prominently. These themes are relevant in today's world as they reflect universal experiences and emotions that many individuals may encounter in their lives. This essay will focus on analyzing the theme of loss of innocence in “Marigolds” and its implications on the protagonist, Lizabeth. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on the topic "Why violent video games should not be banned"? Get an Original Essay The loss of innocence is a common theme in literature, symbolizing the moment when a character transitions from childhood to adulthood, often through a trauma or accident-opening experience. In “Marigolds,” Lizabeth's loss of innocence is depicted through her realization of the harsh reality of poverty and the fragility of human emotions. The marigolds in the story serve as a symbol of this loss, as they represent the destruction of beauty and innocence in Lizabeth's world. One aspect of the loss of innocence in "Marigolds" is the impact of poverty on Lizabeth's perception of the world. Growing up in a slum during the Great Depression, Lizabeth is exposed to the hardships of her family and neighbors, which shape her understanding of poverty and its effects on individuals. This exposure to hardship forces Lizabeth to face the harsh realities of life at a young age, leading to the loss of innocence and the erosion of her childhood innocence. When analyzing the theme of loss of innocence in "Marigolds", it is essential to consider the psychological implications on Lizabeth's character. Studies have shown that experiencing trauma or adversity during childhood can have long-term effects on an individual's mental health and well-being. The loss of innocence can result in feelings of disillusionment, anger, and confusion, as seen in Lizabeth's emotional turmoil throughout the story. This internal conflict highlights the complexity of the loss of innocence and its profound impact on a character's psyche. Additionally, the loss of innocence in “Marigolds” is also tied to the theme of adolescence, as Lizabeth grapples with the transition from childhood to adulthood. Adolescence is a critical period of growth and self-discovery, marked by physical, emotional and cognitive changes. The loss of innocence during this stage can be particularly challenging, as individuals navigate the complexities of identity formation and social expectations. Lizabeth's journey in "Marigolds" reflects this struggle, as she faces the harsh realities of poverty and the complexities of human nature. The loss of innocence in "Marigolds" is also evident through Lizabeth's emotional turmoil and conflicting feelings towards her father. Despite her initial anger and resentment towards her father for his inability to provide for the family, Lizabeth's loss of innocence allows her to see him in a new light. He realizes that his father, like many others in their poor community, is also a victim of circumstance and struggles with his own sense of helplessness. This realization marks a pivotal moment in Lizabeth's journey towards understanding the complexities of human nature and the harsh realities of life. Furthermore, the loss of innocence in "Marigolds" is further accentuated by Lizabeth's act of destroying Miss Lottie's marigolds. Miss Lottie's marigolds symbolize beauty and hope amidst poverty and despair, representing a sense of innocence and purity that Lizabeth ultimately destroys. This act.