Essay Questions

Why is getting a dog such a big deal (in a bad way) for Violet?

Violet is expecting that her boyfriend, Clint is going to propose to her on her birthday. It's the day she's waited for all her life - and her Mom too. When Clint doesn't propose but rather gives her a dog collar for her new puppy, she's crushed. The illusion that she would be swept away by a successful, handsome doctor has come tumbling down and when she doesn't get what she wants she breaks up with Clint, as he's honest with her in saying that he doesn't even know who she is as a person, only the persona she puts on.

Why does Violet quit her job?

Violet had become the queen of beauty accounts at her advertising firm - and she's done so by selling products with sex. But once she won't do that anymore her boss can't understand why she can't just do it for the money. These things will never bring happiness or fulfillment for Violet and she's willing to quit her high-paying job in her belief.

What's the significance of Violet jumping in the pool on her wedding day?

Violet's memory of getting in the pool as a child and being mocked by the white kids for having hair that is like a chia pet has haunted her. So much so that she has lived her life in a way that seeks to be "beautiful" for everyone in her life. This is a perfection that eventually exhausts her to the point where she shaves her head and begins to seek who she truly is to herself and in the world. When she jumps in the pool on her wedding day, her gesture signifies her desire to live free for herself rather than for anyone else in her life. Appearances don't matter anymore.