Home

The need for a home is universal to all human experience, yet the definition of home varies greatly from individual to individual. In the story, Sarah, Plain and Tall, it is the title character, Sarah, who must redefine what home means to her. Sarah had formerly loved the home she shared with her brother, William, along the coast of Maine. She and her brother shared a loving bond. As a fisherman, he earned the living for the household, but Sarah certainly pulled her own weight. She is an accomplished carpenter and painter, as well as a good cook and housekeeper.

Sarah is strong and energetic, and takes excellent care of the home she shares with William. However, when William marries and brings his new wife home, Sarah no longer feels that it is her home. Rightfully, she believes, the house should now belong to William and his new...