The central conflict in the short story “Marigolds” revolves around the struggle between innocence and experience, particularly through the perspective of the young protagonist, Lizbeth. This internal conflict is reflected in Lizbeth’s journey as she navigates the complexities of growing up in a poverty-stricken environment, where she grapples with feelings of anger, confusion, and a sense of betrayal.
As Lizbeth witnesses the harsh realities of her surroundings, she is torn between her childhood innocence and the emerging understanding of the world’s cruelty. This is most notably highlighted in her confrontation with Miss Lottie, the woman who tends to the marigolds in her dilapidated yard. Lizbeth’s impulsive act of destroying the marigolds symbolizes her internal turmoil; she lashes out at the one vibrant thing in her bleak world, reflecting her desire to reclaim the innocence she feels slipping away.
The external conflict also encompasses the societal struggles faced by the characters, particularly the economic hardships and racial tensions that underscore their lives. The contrast between the beauty of the marigolds and the grim reality of their existence serves to deepen this conflict, showcasing the intersection of personal and social challenges.
Ultimately, the conflict in “Marigolds” is not merely about the protagonist’s actions but is a poignant commentary on the loss of innocence and the painful yet necessary journey toward maturity.