Who is Arlene Erhardt (Mama) from The Cape Ann and what is their importance?

Arlene Erhardt, Lark's mother, is a fiercely independent woman who realizes she doesn't like marriage. She is a headstrong woman with a kind heart. After deciding to move to California, Mama beomes confused about whether or not she's making the right decision. She believes in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness, as set forth in the Declaration of Independence, and she is willing to work to get ahead in life. In the end, Mama knows that she's made the right decisions, and she proves to be an excellent role model for Lark.