A Tree Grows In Brooklyn Analysis

One of the main conflicts of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is person (Francie) vs. society. Poverty and judgment runs down the streets of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York. Francie dives head on into conflicts concerning gender, economic state, and religion. “She put the penny in her dress pocket and turned the rest of the money over to him. Neeley was ten, a year younger than Francie. But he was the boy; he handled the money” (Smith 8). In essence, this shows females were not trusted to hold the money, resulting in Francie to give the money to her younger brother Neeley, even though Francie was probably more responsible due to her age. But because of her gender, she has to give the money to her younger brother, resulting in the conclusion
One of the themes of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is coming of age or a work of bildungsroman. Throughout the exposition and the rising action Francie is young, naive, and optimistic young girl. “Serene was a word you could put to Brooklyn, New York” (Smith 1). In other words, Francie thinks the world is nothing but good, she can only see the good things in places and people, resulting her to be naive and trust people she doesn’t know. In addition, “Mama had told her that this was a task reserved for teachers’ pets. To Francie, pets meant cats, dogs and birds. She vowed that when she was old enough to go to school, that she would meow, bark and chirp as best as she could so that she would be a “pet” and get to clap erasers together”(Smith128-129). In essence, Francie lacks knowledge and experience in the real world. She takes being a teacher’s pet literally; instead of comprehending it’s real meaning, showing Franice’s innocence and lack of knowledge in the world around her. However, by the falling action and resolution Francie becomes an independent, hardworking and strong young adult. “”I’ve been working less than a year and I’ve had three jobs already…I’m scared because they’re depending on me here for money”” (Smith 425) Once Jonny dies, Katie struggles to provide for her children, resulting in France and Neeley being introduced into the business world. Francie becomes the supporting and driving force for the Nolan family. She takes on a series of jobs to provide for her family and puts aside her education. ““But don’t worry, Mama. I know what the entrance examinations are now, and I’ll get the books and study and take those examinations next year. And I’ll pass next year. It can be done and I’ll do it. You'll see”” (Smith436). As a result of the Nolan’s dependence on Francie’s income and Katie’s inability to send both children to high school, Francie cannot attend high school, as she desires. In response, Francie becomes determined and plans to