What is the conflict of “The Lottery Rose” by Irene Hunt?

In "The Lottery Rose" by Irene Hunt, the conflict is multifaceted and stems from Georgie's traumatic experiences. The story portrays the cycle of abuse that Georgie endures at the hands of his mother's boyfriend, Steve, who is physically and emotionally abusive towards both Georgie and his mother. The abuse Georgie endures is demonstrated through his fear and reluctance to speak about his home life, the bruises he tries to hide, and the way he flinches at any sudden movement.

Georgie finds solace in caring for a rosebush he discovers, which represents a symbol of hope and renewal in his life. However, Steve destroys the rosebush, which acts as a catalyst for Georgie's decision to run away from home. As he struggles to survive on his own, Georgie is haunted by memories of his past and the fear of being caught by Steve. The conflict in the story is not only external, but also internal, as Georgie grapples with his traumatic experiences and his feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt.

The story also touches on themes of poverty, neglect, and the lack of support for children in abusive situations. Hunt portrays Georgie as a sympathetic character, highlighting the impact of abuse on children and the importance of providing them with a safe and supportive environment. The resolution of the conflict comes when Georgie is finally able to confide in and receive support from a kind adult, a symbol of hope and healing. Overall, "The Lottery Rose" is a powerful and poignant story that explores the impact of abuse on a young child and the importance of empathy and support in overcoming trauma.