Glass Castle Essay

However, there are some far more than substantial themes and symbols taking place within the tonic. These themes require a little more critical thought, and arent directly delivered to the ratifier. One of these themes being the heavy emphasis placed on the trumpery castle, and also metaphorically what it signifies to Jeanette and her father, Rex. Through extensive deliberation and thought, the meaning of the glass castle becomes clear. It stands for the contrast between how Jeanette views her father, and how every whiz else sees him.The idea of the glass castle in itself is the idolized version of Rex that Jeanette sees, while the reality of it never being completed, represents the views that everyone else has. Throughout the story there are multiple instances that show the strong love and trust Jeanette feels for her father. A stay put that trunk strong, even when other members of the family let lost some of that trust. This contrast of emotions can outmatch be described th rough various quotes given throughout the novel. In my mind, Dad was perfect, although he did have what mom called a bit of a drinking situation (Walls 23).This is one of the first occasions where the reader is introduced to the contrasting feelings about Rex that members of the Walls family have. Jeannette, despite already knowing that her father has a drinking problem at a young age, still feels that her father can do no wrong. This sets the scene for how most of the intelligence develops, Jeannette idolizing her father, despite the slight disdain visibly felt by others. We laughed about all the kids who believed in the Santa clause myth and got nothing but a bunch of cheap plastic toys.Years from now, when all the scrap they got is broken and long forgotten, dad said, youll still have your stars (41). This is yet another example of the strong bond developed between Rex and Jeannette. However, it is important to note this quote is delivered at a time when Rex is still in relat ively good standings with the quiet of the family, besides just Jeannette. On that Christmas, even though he couldnt provide his children with material gifts, he was still able to deliver a memorable gift, which the children could cherish for the rest of their lives. I swear honey, there are times when I think youre the only one around who still has faith in me, he said. I dont know what Id do if you ever lost it. I told him I would never lose faith in him. And I promised myself I never would (78-79). This quote perfectly sums up the relationship Rex had with his daughter. It also further exemplifies the admit differences between how Jeannette feels about her father, and how the rest of the family feels. Even though Rex has let Jeannette down just as many a(prenominal) times as Lori, or Brian, she is still able to somehow see past these faults of Rexs.Throughout this novel the characters general feelings on Rex sway dramatically. Even Jeannettes feelings for her father are attem pt at some points. Yet through everything that happens she never truly loses faith in her father. Jeannette always maintains a sense of respect and love for Rex, despite the tribulations he has brought the family through. Even up to his last moments on his deathbed, Jeannettes positive feelings for her father remain strong. This contrasted affection between what Jeannette feels for Rex, and what everyone else thinks, is what the glass castle really signifies.