One-line Summary:
A determined woman navigates the challenges of life, love, and motherhood in the early 20th century, finding strength and success against all odds in the novel “So Big” by Edna Ferber.
Life on the Prairie
In the opening of “So Big,” we meet Selina Peake DeJong, a young woman who leaves her comfortable city life to become a schoolteacher in a small farming community in Illinois. Selina quickly adapts to the harsh realities of life on the prairie, learning the value of hard work and perseverance. She forms a close bond with her students and gains the respect of the community.
A Mother’s Sacrifice
After marrying Pervus DeJong, a farmer, Selina becomes a mother to their son, Dirk. Despite the challenges of raising a child on a struggling farm, Selina is determined to provide a better life for Dirk. She instills in him a love for learning and encourages his artistic talents. Selina’s unwavering dedication to her son becomes the driving force behind her actions and decisions.
Success Against All Odds
As Dirk grows older, he becomes disillusioned with the farming life and yearns for something more. Selina, recognizing her son’s potential, encourages him to pursue his passion for art. Dirk eventually leaves the farm to study architecture in Chicago, where he faces numerous setbacks and disappointments. However, Selina’s unwavering belief in him and her own resilience inspire Dirk to persevere. He eventually finds success as an architect, fulfilling his mother’s dreams for him.
Throughout the novel, “So Big” explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness. Selina’s determination to provide a better life for her son is a testament to the power of a mother’s love and the sacrifices she is willing to make. The novel also highlights the challenges faced by women in the early 20th century, as Selina defies societal expectations and finds her own path to success.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of hard work and perseverance in overcoming challenges
- A mother’s love and sacrifice can have a profound impact on a child’s life
- Pursuing one’s passion and staying true to oneself can lead to success
“Life is just one damned thing after another.”
In conclusion, “So Big” is a compelling novel that explores the journey of a determined woman who defies societal norms and overcomes obstacles to create a better life for herself and her son. Through Selina’s story, Edna Ferber reminds us of the power of love, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.