In Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, the story is about the four March sisters Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy, who grow up and deal with different challenges in their lives. One part that stood out to me is when Marmee, (their mother), talks to Jo about her temper after Jo admits that she gets angry really easily. This part felt important to me because it shows that even adults who seem calm and put-together still have their own individual struggles.
“I am angry nearly every day of my life, Jo, but I have learned not to show it; and I still hope to learn not to feel it, though it may take me another forty years to do so.” Marmee’s voice was so gentle and her face so full of patience and wisdom that Jo felt ashamed of her own quick temper, and more determined than ever to improve herself, though she knew it would not be easy. (p. 78)
I chose this quotation because it made me see Marmee in a different way. Before this part of the book, she kind of seems almosy perfect, but here you realize she actually struggles too. She’s just learned how to deal with it better. It also connects a lot to Jo, since Jo is known for having a bad temper and tends to act without thinking. I liked this part because it shows that changing yourself isn’t something that happens overnight, and that it takes time, even for adults. It also made the story feel more real, because everyone has things they’re trying to improve about themselves. Overall, this part in the book stood out to me because it shows how growing up is not just about getting older, but about learning and working on yourself over time.