The conclusion of ‘A&P’ is both poignant and reflective. Sammy, the protagonist, makes a pivotal decision as he impulsively quits his job in protest after his manager, Lengel, confronts three girls for not wearing appropriate attire in the grocery store. This act of defiance is driven by his romanticized perception of the girls and his desire to stand up for their freedom to express themselves.
However, as Sammy exits the store, he quickly realizes the weight of his decision. He suddenly understands that his act of rebellion does not necessarily garner him the admiration of the girls, who have already moved on. The story highlights his feelings of isolation and the harsh realities of adult life. Sammy’s realization that he must face the consequences of his actions evokes a sense of bittersweet loss. In his moment of bravery, he also confronts the complexities of growing up and the often disappointing nature of real-life choices.
Ultimately, Updike’s conclusion emphasizes the struggle between youthful idealism and the sobering lessons of maturity, leaving readers to ponder the implications of Sammy’s choice and the cost of standing up for one’s convictions.