Emily Grierson Fear Of Abandonment Analysis

Emily Grierson in the short story “A Rose for Emily” written by William Faulkner goes through depressing events in her life, but how she deals with these stressors is what is interesting. Ms. Grierson has to deal with the loss of her father. Additionally, the fact that her new found lover did not want to marry her and could leave her at anytime causes more stress. Both of these situations lead her to isolate herself from other people, fearing the thought of the town looking at her as weak. The loss of her father, her lover Barron possibly leaving her, and the thought of being weak, causes Emily Grierson to obtain the fear of abandonment. The fear of abandonment can be described in many different ways. According to a therapist from GoodTherapy.org, “Abandonment is the fear that typically stem from childhood loss, such as the loss of a parent through death or divorce.”(Abandonment) Miss Grierson possesses a severe case, which causes her to have such strong and disturbing actions. GoodTherapy.org claims, “A severe case of abandonment can cause significant impairment, particularly with regard to the development of healthy relationships.”(Abandonment) William Faulkner used this fear to help the reader understand the mental state of Miss Emily. When Ms.Grierson’s father passed away, it was the first time she did not have anyone that she loves around. She was in such shock and denial that she would not release the body. This is proven when Faulkner states, “She told them that