“I was astonished at what I could do. And I wondered what else I could do. Maybe I would always wear the heavy boots of anxiety and the prickly coat of worry, but maybe—even still—I could just be a person who belongs in the world, even if it’s hard.”
Maeve grapples with a pivotal moment of self-discovery and empowerment. After successfully assisting in the unexpected birth of a baby, she is astonished by her resilience despite her constant struggle with anxiety and worry. Maeve reflects on her newfound strength acknowledging that while anxiety may always be a part of her, she can still belong and navigate the world. This experience of delivering a baby in a high-stress situation serves as a catalyst for Maeve's personal growth. It eventually instills in her a sense of wonder, self-admiration, and hope for the future. This scene displays her ability to rise above adversity and find the extraordinary within herself.
“We’ll walk up and down the alleys looking for treasure and avoiding skunks. Any of those things. None of those things. Whatever you can think of. In fact, you don’t even have to think about all the silly things. I can do that too. Your girlfriend will be in charge of distractions.”
The quote illuminates the compassionate relationship between Maeve and Salix. It focuses on Maeve's struggle with anxiety and Salix's unwavering support. Maeve vividly describes the physical and mental toll it takes on her. Meanwhile, Salix shows understanding and kindness assuring Maeve that she does not have to face her worries alone. She offers to be a source of distraction and comfort by suggesting various activities to divert Maeve's mind from her anxiety. The theme of this passage underscores the importance of empathy, acceptance, and the power of human connections in mitigating the challenges of mental health. It also demonstrates the beauty of finding solace in love and understanding through their romantic relationship.
“I didn’t want to sit in the murky unknown. I wanted to stand on concrete.”
Maeve expresses a desire for stability and certainty amidst the chaos of her family dynamics. She yearns for a solid foundation—something reliable and unambiguous to stand on—represented metaphorically by concrete. This longing is born out of her aversion to complicated situations such as her father's struggles and her mother's new relationship. Maeve finds comfort in her romantic relationship as Salix represents a positive and stable presence in her life. The quote emphasizes the need to seek refuge in relationships that provide security, especially in the face of familial turmoil. Thus, it speaks to the human need for a stable ground amidst life's unpredictable journeys.
