An Analysis of "Average Waves in Unprotected Waters"

Introduction

"Average Waves in Unprotected Waters" is a touching short story by Anne Tyler. It tells the tough tale of Bet Blevins, a single mom who has to make the heartbreaking decision to place her mentally disabled son, Arnold, in an institution. This story, full of symbolism and deep emotions, looks at themes like a mother's sacrifice, what society expects, and personal strength. This essay will dive into all that, focusing on the themes, how the characters grow, and how the author uses different literary tricks to make us feel and understand.

At the core of "Average Waves in Unprotected Waters" is Bet Blevins. She's a mom stuck between her responsibilities and the tough reality of her life. Tyler does a great job showing Bet's inner struggle with detailed descriptions and emotional dialogue. The story kicks off with Bet getting ready to take Arnold to the institution. She’s determined but also filled with dread. The way Tyler describes Bet packing Arnold's clothes and setting up his toys shows her deep love and care, despite the painful choice she has to make. The repeated imagery of waves is a strong metaphor for Bet's rollercoaster of emotions, showing how unpredictable and overwhelming her life can be.

Arnold, though not as developed as Bet, is key to her emotional journey. His childlike innocence and neediness sharply contrast with the societal pressures on Bet as a mom. Tyler doesn’t hold back from showing the harsh judgments and stigmas around raising a disabled child. Through Bet’s encounters with others, like the rude social worker and the indifferent doctors, Tyler criticizes a society that often sidelines and misunderstands people like Arnold and their families. This critique is even stronger with the story's setting—a cold, impersonal institution that symbolizes the unfeeling systems meant to help vulnerable folks.

A major literary trick Tyler uses is her powerful language to show the characters' emotional states. The narrative feels sad and resigned, mirroring Bet's inner battle. Using free indirect discourse, Tyler lets us get close to Bet's thoughts and feelings, creating a deep sense of empathy. Phrases like "a life of average waves" and "unprotected waters" capture Bet’s view of her life—full of constant struggles and no safety nets. This choice of words not only hits hard emotionally but also strengthens the themes of vulnerability and strength.

Tyler’s look at maternal sacrifice is detailed and complex. Bet’s decision to institutionalize Arnold isn’t shown as abandoning him but as an act of deep love and selflessness. Tyler shows the complexity of Bet’s choice, with her wrestling with guilt, fear, and hope. The climax, where Bet watches Arnold being taken away, is a gut-wrenching moment that sums up her sacrifice. Tyler’s careful portrayal of Bet’s emotional turmoil makes readers rethink traditional ideas of motherhood and the sacrifices it involves.

Conclusion

In the end, Anne Tyler’s "Average Waves in Unprotected Waters" is a brilliant look at human experiences, especially those facing life’s toughest challenges. Through Bet Blevins, Tyler explores themes of maternal sacrifice, societal expectations, and personal strength, offering a story that’s both heartbreaking and thought-provoking. The rich symbolism, powerful language, and detailed character development make it a compelling read that sticks with you. Tyler’s skill in making us feel and understand through her storytelling secures her place as a key voice in contemporary literature. "Average Waves in Unprotected Waters" is a testament to her talent in capturing the complexities of human emotions and relationships.