Even though Rex Walls was abusive and at times a bad influence to the family, he was an inspiration and always loved his children. Without Jeannette being optimistic, she may have never loved her inspirational father that helped her succeed in her future.
Proof: “He carried around the blueprints
for the Glass Castle wherever we went, and sometimes he’d
pull them out and let us work on the design for our rooms. All we had to do was
find gold, Dad said, and we were on the verge of that. Once he finished the
Prospector and we struck it rich, he’d start work on
our Glass Castle,” (25).
Explanation: Even though the Glass Castle was never made, it was symbolic for hope and a bright future. Rex Walls would always bring the blueprint of the Glass Castle with him to remember that there is a bright future ahead. Jeannette states “If I had lost my belief in my father, I would have lost my belief in the future,” this directly relates to her future being dependent on the care from Jeannette’s father. Although, Rex Walls was an alcoholic and stole money from his children, he always cared and wanted the best for his children. This shows that without the mental support of Rex Walls, Jeannette may have never been dream and achieve a successful future. |
Proof: “We laughed about all the kids who believed in the Santa myth and got nothing for Christmas but a bunch of cheap plastic toys. ‘Years from now, when all the junk they got is broken and long forgotten,’ Dad said, 'you will still have your stars,’” (41).
Explanation: Jeannette never believed in Santa Claus and in presents. Christmas to her was all about the memories rather than the value of gifts she got. The family was going through a very rough time earlier in her life and her mother and father could not afford to pay for presents. Instead, the father let Jeannette choose a star. Despite being poor and struggling financially, her father showed his love and wanted to make them happy. The stars are symbolic for love and a favourite memory of Jeannette’s childhood and how you don’t need materialistic objects to be happy. One of the main reasons as to how Jeannette was able to overcome challenges and become successful was because of her father. His support helped her pursue and become a successful adult. |