There are multiple themes in M. V. Sexton Speaking although each is related, in part, to larger questions of identity formation, the joys (and fears) of growing up and the need to balance independence with interdependence.

Aunt Gert raised Elise, M. V.'s mother, and loved her fiercely; she believes, though, that she made many mistakes as a surrogate mom. Determined to spare herself, and M. V., similar heartaches and the pain of further loss, Aunt Gert responds by being an even more protective guardian for Martha Venable than she was for Elise. According to M. V., Aunt Gert is convinced "all teenagers make out, drink and smoke pot." She is wary of M. V.'s growing need to socialize, and she is frequently afraid that M. V.'s judgment will not be "sound." M. V. says: "I have taken the path of least...