Love requires the skill to put it into words
When her boyfriend forbids her from attending college or reading books, Rita declares, "You're trying to tie my noose around my neck," and breaks off their relationship. In a state of combativeness, Rita pleads with Frank, "Teach me how to write a thesis!" We sense the incredible power of a woman with no way out. Frank praises her thesis as "so Rita-like and interesting," and doesn't want her to lose her individuality. However, what she wants now is not the individuality she cultivated in her working-class background; it's the writing skills that impress examiners and the confidence to speak on equal terms with others. Frank is delighted to see her gradually acquire language skills and become independent, and he offers him everything he has. He begins to have special feelings for Rita, but she interacts with students her age and rapidly achieves self-realization, putting her beyond his reach. Nevertheless, Frank himself is influenced by Rita and begins to pursue independence with a positive attitude. This process is heartwarming, and the relationship between the two evokes an indescribable love.
To begin with, this story questions the structure that prevents socially vulnerable people like Rita from saying what they want to say. Rather than emphasizing the virtues of independence, the story conveys the message that we should first take care of ourselves. The relationship between the two was built on Rita's choice of self-care and her determination to actively change herself.
