Pollyanna Grows Up · Chapter
Della Speaks Her Mind explained
Della Wetherby visits her sister, Mrs.
What happens
Della Wetherby visits her sister, Mrs. Carew, and tries to persuade her to break out of her grief-stricken isolation. She suggests that Mrs. Carew take in Pollyanna, a cheerful young girl known for her 'glad game,' hoping the child's optimism might help her sister. After initial resistance, Mrs. Carew reluctantly agrees, though she warns that if Pollyanna preaches to her, she will send her back.
Themes in this chapter
Optimism and The Glad Game
Della describes Pollyanna's glad game as a transformative practice that helps her endure pain and find joy in adversity.
Loss, Grief, and Healing
Mrs. Carew is consumed by grief over her lost son Jamie, and Della tries to help her find a way out of her isolation.
Charity and Social Responsibility
Della urges Mrs. Carew to engage in charitable work, but Mrs. Carew dismisses it, preferring to give money rather than personal involvement.
Characters to notice
- Della Wetherby
Visits her sister Mrs. Carew and passionately argues for bringing Pollyanna into the home to lift the gloom.
- Mrs. Carew
Grieving and resistant to change, she initially refuses but eventually agrees to take Pollyanna for the winter.
- Pollyanna Whittier
Discussed at length; her glad game and optimistic influence are described by Della as a potential remedy for Mrs. Carew.
- Dr. Chilton
Mentioned as the doctor who married Pollyanna's aunt and who is planning a trip to Germany.
- Dr. Ames
Mentioned as the Sanatorium doctor who received a letter from Dr. Chilton about Pollyanna.
Key passages
“I don't know anyone who needs it more!”
Della exclaims that Mrs. Carew is in greater need of Pollyanna's influence than anyone she knows.
Della's frustration with her sister's stubborn grief leads her to make this bold claim.
“One week in that house would kill me.”
Della shudders at the oppressive gloom of Mrs. Carew's home, doubting even Pollyanna could make a difference.
Reflects the depth of despair in Mrs. Carew's household.
“I'll remember—but I'm not worrying any.”
Della acknowledges Mrs. Carew's warning about Pollyanna preaching but remains confident the arrangement will work.
Shows Della's faith in Pollyanna's charm and the hope she brings.