The theme conveyed throughout “Bicycle Love” is that of the meaning found in and self growth induced by breaking out of one’s comfort zone. When she realizes her life is stalled and the direction of her next step unknown, Goodspeed elects to embark on a risky solo journey. Despite facing self doubt and the doubt of others, she successfully bicycles through unknown terrain by herself and expirences a multitude of rewards.
“I thought I recognized condescension in his voice and I again fantasized about leaving France... He smiled warmly and laughed” (142). Here, the dichotomy she draws between her perception of the cafe owner and the actuality of his kindness cleverly represents her initial hesitations in contrast with the positivity of her experiences.
“The terror had burned off, like calories... The bike-which at first made me feel vulnerable-now empowered me” (147). Her language here shows the growth she experienced through her journey; contrasting her initial feelings in the beginning of her trip with that of what she felt after.
No comments:
Post a Comment