Pollyanna · Chapter
John Pendleton explained
Pollyanna regains full consciousness after a week of fever and learns she is hurt, not sick.
What happens
Pollyanna regains full consciousness after a week of fever and learns she is hurt, not sick. She finds gladness in her condition, comparing it favorably to lifelong invalidism. Aunt Polly is deeply moved by Pollyanna's gratitude and affection. John Pendleton visits Miss Polly to inquire about Pollyanna's condition, revealing his past offer to adopt her and her refusal because she wanted to stay with her aunt. The visit begins to mend the long-standing rift between them.
Themes in this chapter
The Glad Game
Pollyanna applies the Glad Game to her injury, finding reasons to be glad even in paralysis, which deeply moves Aunt Polly.
Suffering and Resilience
Pollyanna's cheerful acceptance of her condition contrasts with the adults' anguish, highlighting her resilience in the face of severe suffering.
Pride and Reconciliation
John Pendleton's visit begins to heal the long-standing pride and estrangement between him and Miss Polly, prompted by their shared concern for Pollyanna.
Characters to notice
- Pollyanna Whittier
Regains consciousness and expresses gladness about her injuries, finding comfort in the prisms and in being called 'dear' by Aunt Polly.
- Aunt Polly Harrington
Deeply affected by Pollyanna's condition and her words of gratitude; receives John Pendleton's visit and begins to reconcile.
- John Pendleton
Visits Miss Polly to inquire about Pollyanna, reveals his past offer to adopt her, and shares his stored-up affection for Pollyanna's mother.
- Nancy
Informs Old Tom about John Pendleton's unexpected visit and discusses the past gossip linking him to Miss Polly.
- Old Tom
Listens to Nancy's news and recalls the history of Miss Polly's estrangement from John Pendleton.
Key passages
“And so it's hurt that I am, and not sick. Well, I'm glad of that.”
Pollyanna is relieved to learn she is injured rather than ill, because injuries can heal.
Demonstrates Pollyanna's optimistic reframing of her condition.
“I love to be called 'dear'—by folks that belong to you, I mean.”
Pollyanna treasures being called 'dear' by family, expressing her deep need for familial affection.
Highlights Pollyanna's emotional hunger for belonging and love from Aunt Polly.
“She would not leave you. She said you had been so good to her. She wanted to stay with you—and she said she thought you wanted her to stay.”
John Pendleton explains that Pollyanna refused his adoption offer because she felt Aunt Polly needed her and had been kind.
Reveals Pollyanna's loyalty and the bond she feels with her aunt, which surprises Miss Polly.