Rose of Sharon and Connie Rivers

Follows the young couple's relationship from hopeful marriage to abandonment, and its impact on Rose of Sharon.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Dream

The Plans The Marriage Rose of Sharon is married to Connie. They are expecting a baby. They dream of a house and a future. The Hopes Connie plans to study at night and get a good job. Rose of Sharon imagines a comfortable life. They are optimistic. The Dependency Rose of Sharon depends on Connie. She is young and naive. Their bond is based on shared dreams.

The Abandonment

The Betrayal The Disappearance During the chaos at the Hooverville, Connie slips away. He leaves Rose of Sharon pregnant and alone. She is devastated. The Grief Rose of Sharon cannot believe he is gone. She waits for him. She is heartbroken. Her trust is shattered. The Aftermath She becomes withdrawn and bitter. The loss of Connie affects her deeply. She feels worthless.

The Memory

The Lingering Pain The References Rose of Sharon often mentions Connie. She wonders where he is. She cannot let go. The Impact Her grief affects her pregnancy. She fears for the baby. She is consumed by self-pity. The Resolution After the stillbirth, Rose of Sharon finally moves on. She performs the final act of charity. She transcends her loss.

early in the story

at the Hooverville

throughout the rest of the story