Plot summary, “A Mother In Mannville” by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings in 3 Minutes - Book Review
1"A Mother in Mannville" is a short story written by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, an American author known for her works in fiction and literature. The story was first published in 1936 and has been widely anthologized since then. It portrays the emotional journey of a young boy and his relationship with an elderly woman.
Plot Summary:
The story is set in a rural town called Mannville. The protagonist, Jerry, is a young boy who has lived most of his life in orphanages, moving from one to another. At the beginning of the story, Jerry arrives at a new orphanage run by a kind and understanding woman, whom he refers to as "the lady."
Jerry is an imaginative and creative boy, and he loves to write stories. He is hopeful that his life will be different at this orphanage, as he yearns for a stable and nurturing environment. His relationship with the lady is warm and respectful, and he feels safe and cared for in her presence. Jerry also takes on some household chores to help the lady, showing his gratitude.
One day, Jerry mentions to the lady that he has invented a mother named Mrs. Devaul, and he has been writing letters to her, pretending she exists. He confides in her that he does this to feel the love and comfort that a real mother might offer. The lady, understanding Jerry's need for maternal love, plays along and even writes a letter back as Mrs. Devaul.
However, as time passes, the lady becomes more preoccupied with her work and other obligations, leaving Jerry feeling somewhat neglected and disappointed. This change in her behavior deeply affects Jerry, who starts to feel like he may be losing the motherly figure he had imagined.
As the story progresses, a kind and caring woman named Mrs. Nelson visits the orphanage. She is looking to adopt a child and is immediately drawn to Jerry's polite and creative nature. Jerry, in turn, is attracted to Mrs. Nelson's warmth and the possibility of having a real mother. He becomes hopeful about being adopted and having a loving home.
When Mrs. Nelson asks the lady about Jerry, the lady realizes that her feelings of motherhood towards Jerry are not enough to fulfill his longing for a true mother. Understanding this, she decides to let Jerry go, recognizing that he deserves a chance at a real family.
In the end, Jerry leaves the orphanage with Mrs. Nelson, and the lady watches them go, acknowledging that it is the right decision for the boy's well-being. Although she was not his biological mother, the lady played an essential role in Jerry's life, nurturing his creativity and helping him find a place where he truly belongs.
Themes:
The central themes of "A Mother in Mannville" revolve around the need for love and belonging, the impact of imagination and creativity in coping with difficult circumstances, and the willingness to let go for the betterment of someone else's life.
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings effectively portrays the emotional struggles of a young boy yearning for a mother's love and the compassionate response of the lady who understands his needs and helps him find a real home.