Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
What's a road trip? Well, it's a trip that people take in a car (on roads), where they usually stop at different places along the way and do some sightseeing. Sometimes it involves delicious snacks and games that have to do with license plates. Who goes on road trips in this story?
You guessed it: Sal and her mother. But separately.
Even though they go to all the same places, Sal and her mother are on very different journeys. Sal's mom is seeking to find herself, to get a better understanding of who she is, besides a wife and a mom. Sal, on the other hand, is going on a journey to say goodbye while following in her mother's footsteps. There are all kinds of deliciously symbolic, interconnected things going on here, so we'll leave you with some questions to get the juices flowing:
- How are Sal's and her mother's road trips similar? How are they different?
- How do you think Sal's mom felt while she was riding along the Interstate, chatting with Mrs. Cadaver?
- What do you think this road trip means to Gram and Gramps? Is it as important to them as it is to Sal?
We're seriously asking, Shmoopers, so tell us what you think.