Coming of Age and Sexuality

Where it surfaces

• III

  Mary's dawning curiosity about men, her confusion about sex as merely a matter of clothing, and her fascination with being hit by a man signal early sexual awakening.

• IV

  Mary's fascination with the policeman's powerful body and her mesmerized reaction to his gaze suggest emerging sexual awareness and the thrill of being noticed.

• V

  Mary's body is beginning to show signs of womanhood, and her mother's anxiety reflects the tension around this transition.

• VIII

  The letting down of the last tuck and the rolling up of her hair mark Mary's transition into young womanhood, and she notices admiring glances from young men.

• Chapter X

  Mary's encounter with the policeman highlights her awakening to adult social dynamics and her discomfort with her own body and attire.

• XIV

  Mary's observation of courting couples and her own romantic disappointment highlight her emerging awareness of love and heartbreak.

• XVI

  Mary's entry into work marks the beginning of womanhood, with emotions and aspirations she will not share with her mother.

• XVII

  Mary's first day of work marks a transition into adulthood; her thoughts about the policeman reveal emerging romantic and sexual feelings, as she imagines comforting him physically.

• XVIII

  Mary's intense shame and terror upon seeing the policeman reflect her awakening to adult emotions and the complexities of desire and betrayal.

• XXXI

  Mrs. Makebelieve reflects on Mary's transition from childhood to adulthood, recognizing that her daughter is no longer a child and is eager to undertake life on her own behalf.