Summary Of Ashes Of Roses By Mary Jane Auch

Ashes of Roses by Mary Jane Auch is about a family of immigrants, enthusiastic about starting their new lives. Life had other plans though as the eldest daughter (Rose) finds herself alone in America taking care of her little sister. The 16-year-old rose must find a way to live a sustainable life for herself and her little sister. Then a fire at a major factory starts a new fire in Rose’s heart, making her a better version of herself. Rose evolves from being selfish to unselfish in a critical crisis. Primarily, Rose’s main reason for being in America was only the thought of a good life for herself. The author wrote, “...They couldn’t make me do it, I’d dive off Ellis Island and swim for New York before I’d get on a boat back to Ireland. We had nothin’ back in Ireland.And there wasn’t a boy in Limerick I’d want for a husband.” (20) This illustrates that Rose’s thoughts are about her not wanting to return to Ireland as nothing is there for her.

Da had said there were more Irishmen in New York than Limerick and Dublin put together.I had better things planned for myself. The more I thought about the boys and girls my age who were left at home, the more I resolved to talk Ma into stayin’ here.” (108) This demonstrates that Rose was mostly worried about becoming like the other girls her age. Furthermore, Rose wants to stay in America, not enjoying her life being put back to normal by Ireland, and doesn’t want Maureen to stay with her. The text states, “Then let me stay”. You take the girls and go back,...I'll make my own way...”(110) This shows that Rose is frantic about wanting to stay, but has no interest in either of her sister’s staying with her. This once again shows Rose thinking of herself and only her