Experience
The story annoyed me more than it entertained me. This more so from a personal inclination towards happy ending where family is concerned. I believe in happy families.
Leroy is insensitive towards his wife’s needs. While it is understandable that he suffered from the accident, he shows no concern for his wife’s desire that he be able to work again. Jean on the other hand, lacks understanding and is spiteful to her husband for his lack of a job.
Interpretation
‘Shiloh’ is war zone. It is representative of the conflict between Leroy and Jean and between the couple and Mabel, Jean’s mother.
The tractor trailer symbolizes the loss that the coupe has experienced, loss of a child, livelihood and feelings. The log cabin symbolizes the marriage’ Leroy hopes to build just like he hopes to rebuild his marriage but does not succeed in either.
The visit is ironic because instead of visiting the place to make their marriage work, Jean instead declares that she wants to leave.
Evaluation
A major cultural value presented here is the role of parents in one’s lives; Mabel remains an influence in their life even though they are adults.
A social values presented here is that of family and the importance of maintaining relations.
These days, not many people value family relations and not many families are intact.
Critical Thinking
Leroy could have engaged his wife in finding out what he can do, and appearing to make an attempt to contribute to the burden.
This could have saved the marriage since Jean would have felt that her concerns were being addressed.
