Florida and the Happy Life

When he was still alive, Alice's father used to talk to Alice and Mother about moving to Florida. Florida, as described by Father, is a sunny, warm place with an abundance of sweet fruits. Before Father is able to take his family to Florida, he dies mysteriously.

After Father's death, Alice and Mother still imagine a life in Florida, but over time, Florida becomes increasingly a fictional place. Florida is more of a utopia to which Alice and Mother can escape from their difficult life. Florida is a place where both solace and happiness is found.

Identity

Alice shares a name with her mother. After her mother is sent to the mental asylum, Alice is left to live with various relatives including her Uncle Billy and Aunt Frances and her Nonna. As Alice drifts from one household to the next, Alice grows and develops...