A & P Coming of Age

In the short story A & P, John Updike uses an array of imagery and description to portray key themes of internal conflict and tension. This story is seen through the eyes of a young man named Sammy. Through this character, we understand real life issues, such as making decisions, consequence of action, adolescence, and responsibility. These are all areas that deal with "coming of age". Updike uses these elements to give the reader insight …

…Yes, the world is "hard", it can be "embarrassing", and it can be "sad". However, choosing to follow or lead can alter the end result. Sammy saw the "sheep" and wanted nothing of them. Queenie and the two other girls represented something new. It was something different. They symbolize change in thinking and boldness to be different; these being important characteristics in leadership. There is light at the end of the tunnel, even for Sammy.