The fact was that the woman lived the life she chose, she was happy in that life and it was no one's business after all but her own, my uncle's face darkening with blood as he spoke, my mother's fair fine skin pink as if smarting yet still I persisted, for I thought it such a horror, such a grief, yes and an embarrassment too, I said, She's made a prison of this house, it's like she's a nun, it must be to punish herself, and my mother said quietly, angrily, You don't know - what do you know! People do what they want to do.
In Joyce Carol Oates' "I Lock My Door Upon Myself," a woman chooses to live a life that ultimately brings her happiness, regardless of how it might be perceived by others. The narrator's uncle expresses disapproval, showing visible distress, while his mother reacts with anger, defending the woman's autonomy. The narrative highlights the tension between personal choice and societal expectations, particularly regarding a woman's lifestyle.
The narrator struggles to understand the woman's decision, expressing concern that it feels like self-imposed isolation. He views her situation as a form of punishment, reflecting a deep-seated belief in traditional norms. However, his mother's response emphasizes that individuals often pursue what makes them fulfilled, regardless of external judgments. This conversation illustrates the complexity of personal agency and the differing perspectives on how individuals find their purpose and happiness.
