Archive · 27 Oct 2025
Loneliness, Longing, and the Long Summer: ‘The Member of the Wedding’
Frankie, a 12-year-old girl, feels lonely and left out.
She spends her summer with her cousin and the family's maid, dreaming of her brother's wedding.
She feels like an 'unjoined person' and longs to be part of something.
Frankie wants to go to the wedding and maybe even change her name.
Her maid tries to give her advice, but Frankie is set on her plans, even though they may be unrealistic.
Frankie eventually finds that planning and scheming is not enough and is still asked about her grade at the wedding.
Frankie Addams, a 12-year-old, feels isolated during the summer months.
Frankie wants to join her brother and his bride at their wedding and honeymoon.
Frankie clashes with her maid, Berenice, who offers advice.
Frankie dreams of being part of her brother's married life, feeling like an 'I'.
Frankie's plans highlight the struggles of growing up and finding a place in the world.
- Who
- Frankie Addams, a 12-year-old girl.
- What
- Frankie navigates loneliness and desires to be part of her brother's wedding.
- When
- During a hot summer.
- Where
- At home with her cousin John Henry and maid Berenice.
- Why
- Frankie is searching for connection and a sense of belonging.
- Author
- Carson McCullers
- Protagonist
- Frankie Addams
- Setting
- Summer
- Main Theme
- Loneliness and coming-of-age
- Frankie's goal
- Attend brother's wedding
- Relationship
- Frankie with her cousin John Henry, maid Berenice