Mothers and Daughters

The relationships between mothers and daughters is a source of constant conflict throughout the novel. Juliet's relationship with her mother is strained throughout most of the novel due to Juliet coming out to her mother and broader family before she leaves for Portland. Because of the way things are left, Juliet hesitates to reach out to her mother despite all the big shifts and changes she faces during her internship. She longs for her mother throughout the novel, wanting to talk to her about things, or longing for her mother to run her hands through her hair. She wants to show her places in Portland. However, the established barrier impedes that.

Despite the events of the summer, however, there is a deep-rooted, strong love between Juliet and her mother and that is highlighted throughout the novel. Her mother deeply knows Juliet, and strongly believes...