A Summer Tragedy

The T-Model Ford symbolizes the physical deterioration that Jeff and Jennie are experiencing. When they purchased the car, it was shiny and new, regarded as a “peculiar treasure.” However, over the years, the car has worn down; as they drive toward the river, the car works “harder and harder” (354) to climb even small hills. Although Jeff is confident that the car can be depended on for this final trip, it is not likely to last much longer before it finally breaks down for good. In the same way, Jeff and Jennie are not likely to last much longer before their health conditions finally make them incapable of caring for themselves. As Jeff prepares to drive into the river, he thinks about his own youth, acknowledging that over the past 50 years, he has become “old, worn out” (354).

Jennie’s blindness is a motif that highlights the increasing hopelessness of Jeff and Jennie’s situation, as well as Jeff’s own relationship to masculinity. While Jennie is able to navigate their small house despite her blindness, she is still largely reliant on Jeff’s help to get around. Jeff recognizes the dire situation they would be in if he had another stroke: he would likely be confined to his bed, while Jennie would be forced to care for him.