The main message communicated in the short story "Ritz” by Jodi Picoult is that all mothers sometimes need a vacation. Charlotte, the mother to Jenna and Devon and wife to Ian, is the main character in the story. Jenna is telling the story about her mother taking the vacation by only leaving a note saying, "I'm taking a break; don't worry about me." ( Jodi). This action leaves her husband and her children thinking. Her absence from the family brings out the critical role a mother and wife play in the family. During Charlotte's absence, Jenna starts missing appointments, Devon still does not complete his choirs, and dad, as usual, is at work all the time. It is evident that mothers play an essential role in the family.
Charlotte is the character used to develop the message of the story, and she is a protagonist. The character's actions of leaving home for a vacation alone enforce the message that mothers sometimes need a vacation. Charlotte isolates herself from her family, showing the need for mothers to take a break from their family roles. Although her family needs her, the mother should also consider her interests.
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The behavioural change of characters Jenna, Devon, and Ian in the story express why Charlotte needed a break. When Charlotte left home, Jenna starts missing appointments. Devon still does not complete his choirs, and dad, as usual, is at work all the time. This shows Jenna and Devon are not responsible enough and need constant supervision from their mother.Ian has put a lot of focus on his job and pays little time to take care of the family. The characteristic of the rest of the family members shows the crucial role played by the mother and how tiresome it is to warrant for vacation sometimes. The behavior change caused by Charlotte’s absence portrays the effort she puts to ensure the family is well-kept. Therefore, the characteristics of all the characters have developed the core message of the story.
