The Meaning of Home

The Goldfinch

The search for a place to belong, both physically and emotionally.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
Theo's HomelessnessTheo's Homelessness from "The Goldfinch". No Fixed Address Barbours Theo stays with the Barbours. It is not his home. Las Vegas He lives with his father. It is a house, not a home.
No Fixed Address Barbours Theo stays with the Barbours. It is not his home. Las Vegas He lives with his father. It is a house, not a home. Hobie's Finally, he finds a home with Hobie. It is where he belongs.
Boris's RootlessnessBoris's Rootlessness from "The Goldfinch". A Global Nomad Moving Constantly Boris has lived in many countries. He never feels at home anywhere. His Flat in Antwerp He has a flat but it is not a home.
A Global Nomad Moving Constantly Boris has lived in many countries. He never feels at home anywhere. His Flat in Antwerp He has a flat but it is not a home. He is always traveling. Family He has a wife and children but is often absent. He longs for connection.
Hobie's Steadfast HomeHobie's Steadfast Home from "The Goldfinch". A Sanctuary The Townhouse Hobie's house is a haven. It is filled with beautiful things and memories.
A Sanctuary The Townhouse Hobie's house is a haven. It is filled with beautiful things and memories. Welty's Presence The house still feels like Welty is there. It is a home for Pippa and Theo. Stability Hobie provides stability. His home is a place of healing.
After mother's death
Throughout his life
Throughout the story