Symbolism of the Image of the Mother in the Novel "Missing Mother"

Abstract

This article devoted to the Joyce Carol Oates's novel "Missing Mum", the protagonist grapples with profound feelings of loss and longing following her mother's absence. The narrative explores themes of guilt, identity, and the struggle for emotional connection through rich symbolism, particularly the use of water as both a refuge and a source of anxiety. The protagonist's relationship with Valli Szalla complicates her emotional landscape, introducing societal judgment and familial expectations. Oates's vivid imagery and metaphorical depth invite readers to engage with the complexities of grief, isolation, and the search for self-acceptance, ultimately illuminating the universal human experience of loss.