The Simple Gift

Meaningful events and connections in an individual's existence can lead to growth and development, allowing one to experience transitions into new phases of life. Rebellion against the ideologies of one's social context can bestow a sense of independence and personal evolution. Equally crucial, is that through relationships with others, one’s sense of purpose and potential progress is fostered. These concepts are demonstrated in Stephen Herrik’s free verse novel, ‘The Simple Gift’ (2000) and in Brian Selznick’s graphic novel, ‘The Invention of Hugo Cabret’ (2007). Both characters converge to a different social situation, sparking the catalyst for new understandings of themselves and others. Likewise, in Drew Barrymore’s coming of age film,

After Old Bill gives Billy the keys to his home, Billy goes to visit the Librarian, she gives him a ‘TAFE handbook and application form for study assistance.’ ’I took the form and book/ told Irene i’d think about it/ and maybe/ just maybe/ i will.’ Herrick uses repetition of ‘maybe’ to demonstrate Billy’s control of the situation; he is in charge of this new opportunity and what he decides to make of it. Billy’s optimism and consideration toward the idea contrasts greatly to the beginning of the story when he says ‘Better a bum than a school kid’. Conversely, due to forged relationships Hugo is given new opportunities for development when he is provided a home away from the lonely train station by Georges Méliès. Two juxtaposing images-separated by a double page spread displaying the words: SIX MONTHS LATER-exhibit the destitute boys physical transition into a young man. Gone is the image of the shaggy haired homeless boy in baggy clothing, in his place is a clean, well kept young men dressed in a tux. The younger Hugo has dark bags thatched under his eyes and is looking back over his shoulder-signifying the past-the older Hugo has bright eyes and is gazing ahead serenely, into the future. Hugo states, ’Now that my cocoon has fallen away and I have emerged as a magician, I can look back and see that I was right. The automaton my father found did save me’ Hugo’s faith in his salvation rests solely on the bond he had with his deceased father, and the promised secrets within the Robot he left behind. The book finishes with several spanning pages displaying a Solar Eclipse; which stands as a symbolically robust icon for new beginnings. With the help of others, an individual can morph into a new social context and explore the development of their growth and