"Meadowlark"

"Meadowlark" is the name of Beverly's one published book of poetry. Written and published early in his career / academic life, and dedicated to Violet, it represents the hope and possibility of his early years, both aspects of his life that because of his frustrating career and marriage, never reached their full potential.

Violet's Pills

Violet is addicted to a wide variety of pain killing substances. They represent her inability to face the pain and frustrations in her life, and also triggers that she uses as a release for her anger.

Alcohol

In the same way as Violet is addicted to pills, Beverly is addicted to alcohol and drinking, and for the same reasons: his inability to face / cope with the disappointments and pain in his life. There is the sense throughout the narrative that Barbara is on her way to using the same technique to cope...