Coming of Age

The idea of coming of age is a theme used frequently in novels. Stories with this theme generally begin when the main character is a small child and follow this child through its formative years. In the case of "The Song of the Lark" Cather traces the development of a great singer from her childhood to the achievement of her success. When Thea begins her journey she is the daughter of a Methodist minister growing up in a small town. She takes piano lessons from Wunsch, an old broken down man who was once a professional musician. A few people in the town including Thea's mother, the town doctor, Wunsch and a Mexican called Spanish Johnny recognize that Thea has an unusual talent for music. Although she is talented, Thea struggles with her piano. Her teacher suggests it is voice she should concentrate on instead of...