Tinius 2017 discussion
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The Secret Life of Bees
Favorite Quote
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Kate
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May 01, 2017 12:25PM
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My favorite scene within the novel, "Secret Life of Bees," is when T-Ray finds Lily in the Boatwright's residence, but decides to leave, " 'Good riddance,' he [T-Ray] said, and moved toward the door. We had to open up our little wall of women to let him through" (298). This is my favorite scene because it shows T-Ray's development as a character. When Lily was at home, T-Ray would give Lily harsh repercussions for her actions, e.g. kneeling on grits. Also, he does not care for Lily's happiness and well-being. For example, T-Ray does not even acknowledge Lily's birthday, "So ... my birthday is this Saturday ... I was just thinking I would love to have one of those silver charm bracelets ... So, then what about the bracelet? but I could see he'd already given his answer" (22).T-Ray leaves Lily with the Boatwright's not for her own benefit, but because he knows the effort to get her out of that house will be too arduous. Although this mentality is self-centered and not much different from his previous self, his action leaving there still does display improvement. Previously, T-Ray would never change his mind regarding anything, but with his acceptance of Lily residing with the Boatwrights, he is capable of considering alternatives options and maturing as an individual.
Ted O'Young #25, Period 5
My favorite scenes in “The Secret Life of Bees,” are when Lily realizes her love for Zach is a far fetched idea. As explained in the quote “It was foolish to think some things were beyond happening, even being attracted to Negroes...such a thing couldn’t happen, the way water could not run uphill… a law of nature”(125). Lily’s view on the world around her give her reason to believe that her loving Zach is unnatural. Their skin color separates them from society’s norm on what love should look like. My other favorite scene is when Zach confesses his love for Lily and promises her “we’ll be together”(231), showing Zach’s disregard for the traditional civilization. This is my favorite scene because it shows how even the adolescents know what is accepted in society. The world tricks at them at an early age into thinking interracial relationships are frowned upon in american culture. Another reason I liked these scenes is because the maturity both characters show when they know loving each other is unnatural , to when they don’t care about what the world thinks and decide to fall in love. Overall, Lily and Zach overcome the rules of their modern culture and break them without any care.
Isaac Riojas #29, pd.5
Isaac wrote: "My favorite scenes in “The Secret Life of Bees,” are when Lily realizes her love for Zach is a far fetched idea. As explained in the quote “It was foolish to think some things were beyond happening..."I completely agree with you Isaac, society has a major influence on many social factors. However, as you explained, Lily and Zach disregarded society's stigma associated with interracial relationships, and decided to be together anyways. I think it is unfortunate that society creates absurd "rules" regarding people's preferences and opinions. Great analysis Isaac, keep it up.
Ted O'Young #25, Period 5
My favorite scene in the novel is in chapter nine when June joins Lily, Rosaleen, May, and August to participate in the water-sprinkler fight and hugs Lily at the end for the first time ever since Lily’s arrival at the Boatwright house. Even though she was trying “not to laugh”, she still found herself ridiculous for “wrestling with a fourteen-year-old girl over a garden sprinkler” (169). This is my favorite scene as it acts as an ice-breaker between Lily and June, and for the first time in the novel we see June showing her true self beneath the disguise she has put on for the past. June Boatwright has always been a complex character since the beginning of the novel as she was the only one unwelcoming upon Lily’s arrival at her house and has expressed her dislike towards Lily many times throughout the novel, e.g. she stopped playing the music just as Lily was about to touch the red heart on the lady of chains. However, there seems to be an unspeakable dark aspect in June’s life which has caused her to behave the way she does. Although not the oldest of the sisters, she has always had an image of seriousness and is always surrounded by a hostile atmosphere. However, as the story progresses, she has slowly accepted Lily as a part of her family and has cared for her in many subtle ways. This character change we witness in June portrays the theme of the human nature always being good even though it can be scarred in many ways. Although June has developed hatred toward the white population, at the end she is still willing to take Lily in regardless of her skin color.
Scarlett Chen #4, Period 5
Brittnee wrote: "In the novel, "The Secret Life of Bees", my favorite quote is stated during the scene where Lily and August are questioning why the home is painted 'Caribbean Pink'. August says, "The whole problem..."Our society has always had the issue of seeing the suffering of others and not doing anything with it as we have all developed self-centeredness growing up in such a pleasant environment with no need to worry about those who do not share the fortune. Lily's coming-of-age throughout the novel should serve the purpose of reminding us of the importance of making the choices and choosing what matters. I think it is essential for more people to read your response as it really got me questioning my own actions and seeing the flaws in my behaviors. Great analysis!
Scarlett Chen #4, Period 5
One of my favorite scenes in the novel The Secret Life Of Bees is when August tells Lily that it is okay to tell her anything that is on her mind; "Lily, you can talk to me. You know that, don't you? "(p.122 Kidd). This quote shows the bond that August and Lily have created within Lily being ther for about two weeks. I believe that Lily is able to trust August and everyone else because they are the family like figures that Lily had never had; August being close to a mother like figure. This is my favorite scene because it shows that August is really cares for her even though she and June both know that Lily had lied to them.This relates to the novel because it shows how Lily throughout the book, lives a double life that includes some lies in order for her to be able to open up about her mother toward the end of the book. I also feel that Lily is not ready to open up, even though she knows that August knows she might be lying, because she feels like August learning that she lied might jeopardize her relationship and trust with the Boatwright sisters. This is also important to the story that she doesn't tell August the truth because she feels that maybe Rosaleen and herself may be turned over into the police which may force her to lose anything close to a family.
Toby Diep #9
Period 5
My favorite scene from the novel is when Lily decides to leave T. Ray. This scene was my favorite because it is when Lily finally reaches her breaking point from T. Ray's abuse. This is when Lily takes control of her life to look for the answers she is seeking about her mother. After T. Ray tries to hit Lily, she thinks, "In a matter of seconds I knew exactly what I had to do- leave. I had to get away from T.Ray." (41). I liked how she was so sure of running away from him, even though she didn't have everything planned out in her mind; the only thing Lily was sure about was that she needed to escape T. Ray. This relates to the entire novel because this is the first step Lily takes into her new life. Since she runs away from T. Ray, she is able to find the Calendar Sisters. With the Calendar Sisters' presence, Lily is able to mature in a loving environment. Lily's association with women who are empowered also helps her grow and become a powerful young woman. This scene is important to the novel as a whole because it is the action Lily completes that dictates everything that is about to happen in her years of adolescence. Running away from T. Ray changes Lily's life forever.
Theresa Lin, #19
Period 5
Ted wrote: "My favorite scene within the novel, "Secret Life of Bees," is when T-Ray finds Lily in the Boatwright's residence, but decides to leave, " 'Good riddance,' he [T-Ray] said, and moved toward the doo..."Ted, I agree with you and also think that T. Ray's ability to allow Lily to stay with the Boatwrights shows improvement in his personality. During the time of Lily's absence, he may have learned to let things go and to become more openminded to different situations. Although T. Ray's actions of leaving Lily with the Boatwrights is fueled by selfishness, as you stated, I also think he is aware that staying at the Boatwright's is the best option for Lily. Great analysis of T. Ray's character development, Ted.
My favorite scene in "The Secret Life of Bees" is when June finally agrees to marry Neil after so many rejections. June's stubbornness had caused her sisters and everyone she knew so much pain and sadness. Several disputes had been caused as well. They had all been trying to persuade her because they knew the two had feelings for each other and belonged together, yet June always said no. When she says "All right, let's get married," to Neil, everyone rejoices and wishes May were there to experience such a happy event (222). June not only surprised her family and brought joy to the house, but she had to overcome one of her greatest fears to do so. For a long time, June had been afraid of being stood up and of loved ones leaving her. Although it was apparent that Neil would never give up on her through the countless times he had asked her to marry him, she was still skeptical. After what happened to her long ago, it is understandable that she would lose trust and that it would take a while to regain it. However, I believe that June is extremely courageous for “the surrender she had to make inside. Not just to Neil but to life” (222). The dramatic change in June’s character since the beginning of the novel is truly amazing.
Danae Lee #15, Period 5
My favorite quote is in the end when Lily is reflecting on all that has happened since T. Ray departed: "I feel her [Mary] in unexpected moments, her Assumption into heaven happening in places inside me. She will suddenly rise, and when she does, she does not go up, up into the sky, but further and further inside me. August says she goes into the holes life has gouged out of us." (302) I love this quote because it describes how we must continue being strong in order to face the difficulties we struggle throughout life. Life is certainly not perfect, and from time to time it feels as though our hardships will consume us; however, no matter what, we must always persevere so we can overcome them. Lily is a great example of this theme --- she had suffered many hardships no one else had, but in the end she ultimately managed to overcome them because she remain strong. This "Mary", or rather, one's inner strength, is indeed what ends up filling in the "holes life has gouged out of us". This relates to the novel as a whole because it shows how much Lily has matured into a strong, confident woman who can withstand anything thrown at her. Previously, she had very low self-esteem because she did not have any family who truly loved her (she was neglected and sometimes mistreated by T. Ray), and she also blamed herself very much for killing her mother. However, with the guidance of August and the Daughters of Mary, Lily was able to find the strength to stand up against her father's abuse, endure the pain from her mother's leaving, and forgive herself so she can finally live life. Her growth throughout the novel demonstrates how truly remarkable her character development and achievements are.
Olivia Zhou, #34
Period 5
My favorite scene in the novel is when Lily finally lets out the "secret" that she has held in for her entire stay at the Boatwrights' house. When Lily lets out the secret, she also "draws up her whole lifeload of pain and hurls it into [August's] breasts" in the form of tears (238). This is my favorite scene because it is touching to finally see Lily's mother figure, August, in her full character. Lily is able to share her pain and sorrow, something she has withheld from doing for the last fourteen years due to a lack of love for her. Seeing the picture of Lily in August's arms warms my heart because Lily is finally able to find comfort in another person.This scene relates to the novel as a whole because it is the climax where the events prior have built up for this moment. The reader has been anticipating and waiting for Lily to "spill the beans." In addition, this scene precedes the revealing of the character that has largely been unknown to the reader, Deborah Fontanel. It also establishes August as a mother to Lily and Lily finding a place where she feels comfort.
Timothy Lai, #14
Per. 5
Toby wrote: "One of my favorite scenes in the novel The Secret Life Of Bees is when August tells Lily that it is okay to tell her anything that is on her mind; "Lily, you can talk to me. You know that, don't yo..."I agree with you Toby, throughout the novel Lily uses her ability to lie for her own benefit. Lily's double life indeed has helped her opened up about her mother because it allowed her to find the right time to reveal her secrets. I also agree with your analysis of Lily's motivation to keep the truth from the Boatwrights. She felt that she needed time away from T. Ray and she wanted more answers about her mother. Telling August the truth, she felt, may have caused her to fail in her mission. However, it is clear now that August already knew the Deborah was Lily's mother and did the exact opposite of what Lily would have expected--let her stay.
Timothy Lai #14 Per. 5
My favorite scene in the novel "The Secret Life of Bees) was when Zach kissed Lily and after when they propose their love for each other. Lily described the kiss as "floating on a river of light" and a "beautiful aching inside my body". This scene shows how Lily and Zach choose to go against the stereotypes that blacks can't be with whites and vice versa. They fight the racial stereotypes and rules together using the love that they have for each other. They are essentially trying to show that everyone has freedom over what they believe in or want to pursue and that racial prejudice shouldn't serve as boundaries to these beliefs.This scene relates to the novel because throughout the entire novel, racial prejudice is prevalent in everyone's mindset and actions. Zach and Lily choose to go against the rest of society's beliefs which shows how much more mature their morals and ideals are compared to everyone else because they are willing to accept and love each other, regardless of race. In addition, Zach expresses how he is going to "earn grades higher than I ever got" and "go to college". He believes in himself to do this, going against the racial stereotype in that era that blacks can't do well in school or go to college.
Justin Yick #33
Period 5
My favorite scene in the novel "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd, is when Lily finally makes the decision to leave T.Ray. After coming back from jail, T.Ray and Lily quickly get into a heated argument. Once Lily hears what T.Ray has said about her mother, she says "In a matter of seconds, I knew exactly what to do- leave." (p41). This is my favorite scene because this shows that Lily has had enough of T.Ray harsh attitude and decides to take matters into her own hands. This scene also brings out Lily's rebellious attitude and her ability to make life-changing decisions.This relates to the novel as a whole by introducing the theme of coming of age. Lily eventually makes her own decisions that she believes is best for her. This allows her to live a new life away from T.Rays abuse. Lily meets the Calendar Sisters and forms a relationship that is completely different than her relationship with T.Ray. Throughout Lily's time with the Boatwrights, she changes from a troubled girl to a wise and confident young woman.
Elijah Baybay #1, Period 5
My favorite scene in the novel "The Secret Life of Bees" is when August explains to Lily her moms story. Even though this scene is sad it is my favorite because it is when Lily finally achieves her goal of discovering her mothers reason for leaving. When August says to Lily, "Depressed people do things they wouldn't ordinarily do." it shows that August really cares about Lily and how she remembers her mother. Another reason I like this scene is because August is completely honest with Lily about her moms past even though it is hard to say to Lily. This scene relates to the entire novel because the novel is about Lily maturing and coming of age. In this scene Lily is being told something that she has wanted to hear for a long time. I think that it is significant that August is the one to tell Lily because August and the other Boatwright sisters played a big part in Lily's coming of age. I think it was important that August told Lily her moms story towards the end of the novel because Lily had already grown more as a person. In the beginning of the novel Lily only heard her dads side of her moms story and after being with the Boatwrights for a while I feel like she was ready to hear her moms side.
Katherine Moreno #23
Period 5
My favorite scene in the novel The Secret Life of Bees, consisted of the Daughters of Mary along with inspirational characters such as the Boatwright sisters circled around The Lady of Chains. This scene was chosen because it has a huge impact on the life of Lily Owens. After this specific event, Lily's view on life changed, as well as the adaptation of a new culture. The scene was extremely breath taking, beginning a different standpoint of narration of Lily's life. Besides being my favorite scene, it also consists of a powerful quote; "The people called her Our Lady of Chains. They called her that not because she wore chains....They called her Our Lady of Chains because she broke them" (p. 110). This quote was chosen specifically because of the deeper meaning behind it. Our Lady of Chains did not let what was weighing her down, even if she felt as if the world was on her shoulders, keep her from being loving, from becoming stronger, to knowing she's strong.
Jordan McGhee, #21
Period 5
My favorite scene from The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is when August promuses T. Ray that she will take great care of Lily down in Tiburon, "We love Lily, and we'll take care of her, I promise you that. We'll start her in school here and keep her straight," (298). This scene was significant to me because it shows August really taking over as the mother figure in Lily's life. It is one if the first great changes finally happening in Lily's life. Within the time of a few weeks, Lily and August have bonded to the point where August is willing to essentially adopt her as her own child. Throughout the entire ordeal of Lily harboring a plethora of lies, August had already suspected the truth yet she continued to go with Lily's lies. It really showed the thoughfulness and compassion of August. This scene related to the novel as a whole, as it finally gave solace to the empty mother figure position in Lily's life. Her entire life after her mother's death was a struggle to have a close female relative, shown when she was barred from her school's Women's Club due to her lack of a mother. Lily's journey to Tiburon was mainly motivated by the search for truth to her mother, and maybe even some possibility she was somehow still alive. This drive really exhibits her desperation for a mother, a empty space in her life that was fufilled when August promised T. Ray all those things.
Ethan Wang 32
Period 5
Justin wrote: "My favorite scene in the novel "The Secret Life of Bees) was when Zach kissed Lily and after when they propose their love for each other. Lily described the kiss as "floating on a river of light" a..."Justin, I agree with the point you made here. Their love does indeed break the racial boundaries set by the society at the time. Moreoever, African Americans were heavily expected to fail, and deemed the inferior race. An example of this was the suprise expressed by the Germans when Jesse Owens, a black track athlete, dominated the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Like you said, Zach disproved this stereotype.
Ethan Wang 32
Period 5
In the novel The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd, Lily has had enough of T. Ray forcing her to decide to run away from home and leave. After a brutal argument with T. Ray, Lily become flustered and decides that she had to, "leave... I had to get away from T. Ray, who was probably on his way back to do Lord-knows-what to me" (41). This quote emotionally speaks to me because of the pain that Lily has had to endure all by herself. It is her first step to recovering from the brutal and emotionally violent scars T. Ray has left on Lily. This quote holistically appeals to the entire novel because this rational decision has changed her life for the better. This rash decision leads her to meet the Boatwright sisters who serve as Lily's motherly figure which she can look up to. These sisters care for her the way her mother never could due to her absence in Lily's life. Purposefully, this quick decision proves Lily's fast thinking to come up with life changing decisions in a matter of minutes due to her outstanding intelligence.
Nikhil Bhakta, #2
English 2 Honors
Period 5
Though out the story my favorite scene was when Lily and Zach are eating outside under the pine trees. Lily and Zach are having a conversation as to what they see themselves becoming in the future. However regaurdless of Zach being a all star football player, his true passion lies in becoming a lawyer, "I don't wanna play football, I wanna be a lawyer"(121). This is my favorite scene because it this conversation illustrates to the reader the dreams and expectations that the characters have for themselves. Not only does it describe their passions for their career choice but also their passions for eachother. This relates to the book by advancing the relationship between Zach and Lily. Rather than being strangers Lily and Zach share a special bond with one another. By including this scene it also paves the way for importance of the notebook given to her by Zach as a symbol of love.
Bryan Steinmetz 30
period 5
My favorite scene from the novel is when Lily gets picked up from jail and runs away right after her conversation with T. Ray. This scene is my favorite because it shows the type of character that Lily possesses. Even though she knows how badly that situation turns out she still goes with it. It shows how brave she is. This event ties into the book because it what gets the story on its path. If Lily didn't run away with Rosaleen, then Rosaleen would have stayed in jail could have possibly got killed. Lily would also never have gone and lived in Tiburon, which is where she matured. She would have never met Zach and so in. Because of that decision, the whole story progresses to what it is.
#28 Elias Quintanilla Per.5
My favorite quote/scene from The Secret Life of Bees is at the very end of the book when Lily reminisces everything she's done to lead her to the Boatwright house, recalling, "I go back to that one moment when I stood in the driveway with small rocks and clumps of dirt around my feet and looked back at the porch. And there they were. All these mothers. I have more mothers than any eight girls off the street. They are the moons shining over me" (302). Because I can personally relate to this quote, it deeply moved me. Though I can never have a father figure that replaces my real one, I too, have found happiness with my unfortunate situation as Lily has. Monk Kidd displays, through Lily, that grieving is a slow and delicate process that has many stages, but can be overcome so one can continue on with their life, keeping the memories with them and leaving the negative feelings behind.
Lily exhibits how much she has grown from her previous self who desperately wanted to escape from T. Ray's abuse and discover the truth about her mother, desperately seeking the motherly attention she did not have. But as time went on, she grew to love the women who took her in and loved them with all her heart, regardless of what people said about a white girl staying with colored women. She matured into a compassionate and understanding fourteen year-old that's huger for a mother-like figure has been sated.
Kyla Jennell #12
Period 5
“Well if you have a queen and a group of independent-minded bees that split off from the rest of the hive and look for another place to live, then you’ve got a swarm.” (93). This quote from August is very important to the central theme of the novel which is, you will always find your way in the world. August through this quote is trying to tell Lily that although her life may be hard if she looked around it is fine. This quote is one of my favorites from the novel because, it assures me that although life is a arduous journey, I can be reminded that I will always find a way through this world no matter how lost I may seem.
This quote relates to the entire novel because of Lily, Rosaleen, and the calendar sister's lives. Lily on the run looking for her past is lost in a reality she knows that can not presist. But as time moves by, she understands that her past life may not be so bad. For rosaleen this quote is for her desire to vote. Lasty for the calendar sisters, this quote represents their struggles with each other especially may to find their ways in the world.
#13 Thomas jiang
Per 5
The scene that touched me the most is the suicide of May. It is a major turning point in the story where we see all the sorrow stored in May overwhelm her and eventually turning her over to death. May's death had both a negative and positive impact on her family and friends. For the first few weeks, August, June, Lily, and Rosaleen stopped their work to grieve over the loss of their beloved sister and friend May. After awhile, they finally realized that they should stop mourning over her especially since May wrote in her suicide letter that, "it's your time to live. Don't mess it up" (210). Her death and final wish for her sisters impacted June specifically. May has always told June to marry Neil and after May's death, she finally agrees. June's personality changed as a result of her sister's death. She is opening up to new ideas like colorful decorations and attire for her wedding. June is focusing on the more optimistic side of life instead of always being stern. This relates to the entire novel because throughout the story, the author foreshadows the potential death of May. Zach going to jail was the breaking point for May which ultimately led to her suicide. May's death is a significant role in the novel because it acted as a new chapter in life for all the characters.
Cara Tsui #31, Period 5
Justin wrote: "My favorite scene in the novel "The Secret Life of Bees) was when Zach kissed Lily and after when they propose their love for each other. Lily described the kiss as "floating on a river of light" a..."I agree with Justin and his view of how the love between Lily and Zach is to demonstrate how regardless the situation they go against prejudice. As seen earlier in the novel Lily and Zach have always had a special bond. Lily, regaurdless of what she has experienced does not show any prejudice towards people of different race and color. All in all very good analysis Justin!
Bryan Steinmetz 30
period 5
Timothy wrote: "Toby wrote: "One of my favorite scenes in the novel The Secret Life Of Bees is when August tells Lily that it is okay to tell her anything that is on her mind; "Lily, you can talk to me. You know t..."Timothy I agree with you the moment when lily let out her secrets to August is one of the important scenes in the novel. In the revelation of her mother to the calendar sisters, lily is finally able to find the truth and weep her sorrow in the embrace of August. Finally letting out the sadness that she keeps holding in herself.
One of my favorites scenes in The Secret Life of Bees is in chapter eight, in which Lily goes out to the beehive and has a spiritual moment surrounded by the bees, "...maybe I had no idea what kind of world I was actually living in, and maybe the teachers at my school didn't know either, the way they talked about everything being nothing but carbon and oxygen and mineral, the dullest stuff you can imagine..." (142) I believe this is an important scene, as showcases Lily finally understanding that the world is much more complicated than she believed it was growing up. This epiphany moment allowed her to think deeper into the aspects of life, "I started thinking about the world loaded with disguised Mary's sitting around all over the place and hidden red hearts tucked about that people could rub and touch." (142) This newfound philosophical output is an essential part of Lily's journey growing up, wrapping up the concept of this Bildungsroman novel.
Disha Patel #25, period 5
"Don't sort-of-maybe live, but live like you're going all out, like you're not afraid." -August Boatwright, The Secret Life of Bees, Chapter 10This quote is a particular favourite of mine. The context behind it is that this is August's interpretation of May's suicide note that she tells to June, finishing with her telling June to go marry Neil, whose advances she had been rejecting.
As the chapter's epigraph explains, life sometimes ends earlier than expected, so as such, one must continue living to life's fullest, as one cannot know when they will die. In a way, this quote also extends to Lily, who fears telling the truth to August, as well as confronting T. Ray about her running away.
Joseph Choi #5, Period 5
Katherine wrote: "My favorite scene in the novel "The Secret Life of Bees" is when August explains to Lily her moms story. Even though this scene is sad it is my favorite because it is when Lily finally achieves her..."I also share the same opinion Katherine, that by telling August about her true identity, it shows her maturing and the true loving nature of August Boatwright. Your analysis of the scene gives more depth to the scene, especially by mentioning how it was hard for both characters to say what needed to be said. I also agree with how it was good for August to be honest with Lily, explaining the mother's behalf of the story, which may have upset Lily, but also allowed her to learn to mature and learn how to forgive. Though it is difficult to say it to a child who praised their mother as a guardian angel, August does not withhold the truth, exhibiting how she cares for Lily, teaching her that not everything is perfect about humans, but that they all try their best.
Kyla Jennell #12
Period 5
In The Secret Life of Bees, by Sue Monk Kidd, a favorite scene of mine would be in the first chapter where Lily runs away from her home to escape from her father's abusive treatment. I chose this scene to be my favorite because it depicted Lily's strong will, committing herself to decide for herself to leave her predicament. With her father leaving her life without love and full of abuse, she is left without a figure in assisting her to grow. So in face of this, she instead decided what is right for herself. Because of this decision, this scene is my favorite because she took the first step in developing her independence.This scene connects itself well to the rest of novel because it shows of Lily's struggle without a figure to depend on, her mother. With the loss of her mother and the lack of love from her father, she is lost and is given no other choice but to leave her predicament in search of answers. This scene is essential to this novel because it marks the beginning of Lily's journey in search of someone that may assist and enable her to grow.
Ethan Lee, #16
Period 5
My favorite scene is Mr Forrest and his daughter when they are shown in the picture. "She grabbed the picture and set it down on the cabinet. I defiantly meant something to her." (89) The photo of Mr. Forrest and his daughter is a powerful example of appearance versus reality. Lily is so struck by the photo, in fact, that momentarily she believes her own family could be like this. After all, that photo is how parental love appears to the world. Lily calls her father in an attempt to reconnect and possibly discover that he does love her the way Mr. Forrest loves his daughter. But T. Ray undermines Lily's longing for the appearance of family love by telling her that he does not love her and that he plans to punish her when he finds her. There will be no future photograph of T. Ray and Lily, announcing to the world that they are a loving family.
Throughout the novel, Lily struggles of find her place in society. Along with the Boatwright sisters, she feels a sense of belonging and purpose. An evident part of the plot comes when Lily is stung by her first bee, marking her as "a true beekeeper" (167). August remarks that she is now "initiated" into this group of women, a longing that Lily has been awaiting for a while. Indeed, once she had made her imprint on this family, June begins to warm up and open up to her. In addition, this scene transitions to a playful scenario. August, Rosealeen, June, May, and Lily become "water nymphs, danc[ing] around in the cool spray" (168). These females are enveloped with joy and happiness, bringing a energetic mood to the story.This scene is my favorite scene because all elements of terror, discrimination, and racial inequality are put to rest. Lily, a victim of tragedy, is able to break free of the constraints that were put in her before. Kidd's implementation of this scene illustrates the inner child in every adult. August achieves this feeling when she laughs, thinking "I am wrestling with a fourteen-year-old girl over a garden sprinkler" (169). The group of women are able to ignore the daily task if life and enjoy the positive energy surrounding them.
Brian Honng #11 Period 5
Comment:Justin, I agree with your statement about racial prejudice and how Zach and Lily confront it. Their kissing scene resembles something larger than itself, it represents the defiance of decades of social stigma. Zach admits his feelings, deeply and truly for Lily, and takes the chance to show her. Lily is overcome with a happiness, a joy that only come from love. You wrote a well thought out comment and connected the racial prejudice during 1964 to how Lily and Zach disregard society's beliefs.
Brian Honng #11, Period 5
Justin wrote: "This scene relates to the novel because throughout the entire novel, racial prejudice is prevalent in everyone's mindset and actions. Zach and Lily choose to go against the rest of society's beliefs which shows how much more mature their morals and ideals are compared to everyone else because they are willing to accept and love each other, regardless of race."Indeed, this scene truly does seem "great". It shows how Zach and Lily still love each other, in spite of their skin colour. However, what makes this scene nail itself in more is that there is something more than just their skin colour, or their own racism at hand. Society's racism still keeps them apart, even as they attempt to stay together. The recognition of this racism, and of its irrationality, is only the first step towards reform.
My favorite scene in "Secret Life of Bees" is when August tells the story about the Lady of Chains. "They called her Our Lady of Chains because she broke them."(110) I chose this scene because it tells us the readers a moral that no matter how many times one falls, or how hard one falls they always get back up again and again. It also tells the readers to work hard and believe in your heart that someone is always there for you. I always liked this scene since we see a female character symbolizing Mary who was reborn again and she's always in our hearts. This part just really stood out to me in a sense that it is very important to the character development of Lily since it opened her up to many things. This part is significant to the entire novel because of the strong impact it showed for Lily. She always prayed to her and begged to stick with her without realizing that she's always in her heart. Even though she lost her mother she treats the Lady as one of her mothers, she even lost control of herself and forgot that the Lady is always watching over her. Lily sees her as someone who always goes back up when ahe us down. She sees her as a courage giver, someone that grants her wishes to come true. But, she lost the true Lady of Chains that was inside of her. The power of her heart telling herself that she needa to be strong and courageous with the Lady also guiding her with her image. The whole novel showed the Lady as a mother of thousands. The one who strengthens everyone's hearts.
Sarah Mae C. Dela Cruz #8, Period 5
Scarlett wrote: "My favorite scene in the novel is in chapter nine when June joins Lily, Rosaleen, May, and August to participate in the water-sprinkler fight and hugs Lily at the end for the first time ever since ..."I agree in your explanation about June. I myself also loved this scene, for it showed the blossom of new friendship. I like your reasoning about how June slipped away from her cold facade to slowly warming up to Lily. And how you connected her cold personality as seen throughout the novel. I love how you ended it to wrap up your explanation, seeing how June has been rude to Lily and her color. Overall, great analysis and evidence to back up your opinion.
Theresa wrote: "My favorite scene from the novel is when Lily decides to leave T. Ray. This scene was my favorite because it is when Lily finally reaches her breaking point from T. Ray's abuse. This is when Lily t..."I agree with you, Theresa, when you say that leaving T. Ray was the turning point in Lily's life. I also like how you said that this is when Lily takes control of her own life. Lily finally realizing that she could do things without T. Ray and taking up the courage to run away shows a lot of character development. She did not know what was coming for her in the future, but she took a chance anyway because anything would be better than having to endure the pain that T. Ray constantly inflicted on her.
Danae Lee #15, Period 5
Timothy wrote: "My favorite scene in the novel is when Lily finally lets out the "secret" that she has held in for her entire stay at the Boatwrights' house. When Lily lets out the secret, she also "draws up her w..."I agree with you Timothy about Lily finding comfort in another person. She has been deprived of that since her father's tyrannical rule over her household. Her questions about her mother have been bottled up for a very long time and to finally release them is like a great weight lifted off her. She no longer has to endure the pain of not knowing about her mother's life.
Isaac Riojas #29, pd.5
My favorite scene in the novel is when Lily manages to break Rosaleen out of the hospital. This is my favorite scene because Lily uses her brains to achieve this despite her relative youth and and many obstacles. This show of talent proved Lily to be a resourceful person, which will be proven again and again throughout the novel's length. It really evolved Lily as a character to be followed by because of her feats.Rosaleen herself was surprised at how Lily was collected was, and expressed herself saying, "'This is crazy-'" (p. 47). This event can be considered one of Lily's first coming-of-age moments, because of her newfound ability to take matters into her own hands when previously she was dictated by T-Ray. The scene starts the chain of Lily's coming-of-age moments which by the end of the novel developed Lily into a mature person.
Minjaye Lee #17, Period 5
Cara said, " May's death is a significant role in the novel because it acted as a new chapter in life for all the characters."She also used the quote, "it's your time to live. Don't mess it up"(210) I agree with Cara that Mays death did start a new chapter in the rest of the characters lives. After all the sisters stopped mourning May they all started living their lives like May told them to in her suicide letter. I also agree that Mays death changed June(for the better) the most. After Mays death everything falls into place through out the rest of the novel. Even though Mays letter was specifically towards her sisters I think Lily and Rosaleen started to live life like May said to as well.
Katherine Moreno, #23
Period 5
Katherine wrote: "My favorite scene in the novel "The Secret Life of Bees" is when August explains to Lily her moms story. Even though this scene is sad it is my favorite because it is when Lily finally achieves her..."I agree with you Katherine, that Lily finally telling August the truth of who she is and why she came is an overall good thing. Although at first it hurt Lily to hear the truth about her mother, she soon realizes that people make mistakes and that there is no doubt her mother loved her. It shows how Lily has matured and understands that she must forgive her mother for her past faults because it is natural for people to make mistakes. I agree that it was good that August was completely honest with Lily because it shows the type of person August is. She cares deeply for Lily and thinks she is ready to know and deserves to know.
Cara Tsui #31, Period 5
Brian wrote: "Throughout the novel, Lily struggles of find her place in society. Along with the Boatwright sisters, she feels a sense of belonging and purpose. An evident part of the plot comes when Lily is stun..."Brian, I agree with your comment about the change of Lily's character. In the beginning of the novel, Lily was a troubled and sheltered girl. As the story progresses, her personality definitely changes as she spends time with the Boatwrights. She becomes a happier and confident young woman.
Cara wrote: "The scene that touched me the most is the suicide of May. It is a major turning point in the story where we see all the sorrow stored in May overwhelm her and eventually turning her over to death. ..."Cara, I agree with your statement about how May's death resulted in both positive and negative outcomes. Especially with June we can see that she has made a positive change in herself with actions such as agreeing to marry Neil, wholeheartedly. Ina addition everyone begins to understand that they must live their life to the fullest, and not focus on the negative.
Timothy Lai wrote: "draws up her whole lifeload of pain and hurls it into [August's] breasts" in the form of tears (238).I completely agree with you Timothy, for it is very heartwarming to see how Lily is able to find a motherly figure inside of August. She is finally able to find comfort in another person after a long lasting search for a true motherly figure. Also, August can be related to the function of a queen bee, because she is nurturing and caring for Lily and acts as a motherly figure for her. This way, Lily is relieved from the search for answers about her mother and can continue on with her life.
Nikhil Bhakta, #2
Disha wrote: "One of my favorites scenes in The Secret Life of Bees is in chapter eight, in which Lily goes out to the beehive and has a spiritual moment surrounded by the bees, "...maybe I had no idea what kind..."Disha, I admire your usage of words in your response, and I completely agree with your statement about the strong epiphany that Lily had when going to the bee hives. There was an obvious and impacting change of her view on life that definitely showed the coming-of-age aspect to the novel. In your response, the quotes that were chosen were incredibly useful and applied to the point that you were making. The world becomes more complicated when we get older, our perspectives change, and you made a clear statement about how Lily's point of view is starting to evolve.
Jordan McGhee, #21
Danae wrote: "My favorite scene in "The Secret Life of Bees" is when June finally agrees to marry Neil after so many rejections. June's stubbornness had caused her sisters and everyone she knew so much pain and ..."I agree with you, Danae, on how June's stubbornness affected their group. June's decision to marry Neil signaled her change in attitude towards many things, such as her previous distaste of Lily. The change she had made within herself really restored the happy mood the household had shared before May's death, and finally gained Lily's trust as well. This helped the gloomy atmosphere the house had for a while.
Minjaye Lee #17, Period 5
My favorite scene in "The Secret Life of Bees" is when August explains to Lily the importance of lifting a person's heart. In this scene, August explains how painting the house the tackiest shade of pink was the hardest decision, but it made May happy so the color of the house didn't matter. She explains how sometimes "the hardest thing on earth is choosing what matters" (Kidd, 147) This was my favorite scene in the book because August shares such an important ideal with Lily and it further clarifies how positive Lily's situation has become in finding August. The scene shows how August has almost immediately become an important mother figure for Lily through taking care of her and teaching her important skills and values. Simply the fact that this scene characterizes August as a pure, kind, and wise woman who brings Lily close to her to both teach and care for her makes it an extremely heart warming and favorable part of the book.This relates to the novel because its contributes to the plot's theme of "motherhood", showing how love and support can be found from all walks of life and how sometimes the best relationships may be the most unconventional. August and Lily's many talks add to Lily's coming of age moments and this scene is no different. In having August explaining to Lily how sometimes people cannot tell the different between what matters, Sue alludes these things to instances in where there was something that mattered, but it was disregarded for a less relevant reason. One of the bigger examples of this would be Lily wanting to tell August the entire truth, but won't because she is scared August might reject her and make her go home. This scene acts as a coming of age moment for Lily as well as proof that Lily has finally found a true mother figure.
Kaitlyn Choi #6, Period 5
Ethan wrote: "My favorite scene from The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is when August promuses T. Ray that she will take great care of Lily down in Tiburon, "We love Lily, and we'll take care of her, I pr..."Ethan, I agree with you, as August has always been a motherly figure and opened up to everyone including Rosaleen, the Daughters, etc. Her character is essential to the theme of the novel as it is a Bildungsroman concept, and a mother figure such as August really adds as well as contributes to this type of plot. This is especially important for Lily as she is growing and maturing, as you said, a mother figure really benefits Lily on her journey to adulthood because she never had a motherly role model growing up. Motherhood really is what inspired Lily to make the bold choice to explore Tiburon, and this is a key factor of the plot as the story progresses.
Disha Patel #26, period 5
Timothy wrote: "My favorite scene in the novel is when Lily finally lets out the "secret" that she has held in for her entire stay at the Boatwrights' house. When Lily lets out the secret, she also "draws up her w..."I agree with you on how August shows her full mother like figure when Lily confesses. We see August as a mother to Lily but we see her true motherly figure when she embraces August with tears. Like most mothers, she was ready to comfort Lily when she is sad and in times where she needed someone the most. It also makes me a bit sad that Lily could not accept the fact that her mother did;t love her. Overall great analysis!
Toby Diep #9, Period 5
