THE DEPICTION OF FAMILIAL CONFLICTS IN EUDORA WELTY’S “WHY I LIVE AT THE P.O”
Keywords:
Post office, personal choices, individuals, characteristic, communicate Eudora Welty’s short story Why I Live at the P.O. is a fascinating exploration of individuality, personal identity, and the struggle for independence within a small-town setting. First published in 1941, the story is a brilliant example of Southern Gothic literature, filled with eccentric characters, witty dialogue, and a satirical portrayal of human nature. Through the protagonist’s decision to separate from her family and live at the post office, Welty examines themes of self-assertion, isolation, and the consequences of personal choices.Abstract
Eudora Welty’s Why I Live at the P.O. explores family conflict, isolation, and unreliable narration through the perspective of Sister. Sister’s exaggerated storytelling and stubbornness highlight the complexities of sibling rivalry and personal perception. Using humor and irony, Welty presents a compelling narrative about how individuals shape their own version of reality. The story remains a timeless reflection on family dynamics, independence, and the consequences of miscommunication.
References
1. Welty, Eudora. Why I Live at the P.O. Macmillan and Co. 1941
2. Mars, Suzanne. Eudora Welty Foundation Scholar-in-Residence
3. Why I Live at the P.O. – A Critical Overview." Mississippi Quarterly, Vol. 48, No. 3, 1995, pp. 205–220
4. Kreyling, Michael. “The Character of Place. Southern Literary Journal, 2003, pp. 55–80
5. Eudora Welty: Stories, Essays, & Memoir. Library of America, 2009
6. American Writers Museum. “Eudora Welty. www.americanwritersmuseum.org
