The glass roses is a short story written by Canadian author Alden Nowlan. The story follows the main character, a young boy named Stephen, as he struggles to come to terms with the expectations placed on him by his father and the harsh realities of adulthood.
Stephen is a sensitive and imaginative child who is deeply affected by the difficult circumstances of his life. He lives in a small, isolated community in rural Canada with his father, a stern and demanding man who is deeply disappointed in his son. Stephen's mother died when he was young, leaving him with a deep sense of loss and loneliness.
Despite the challenges he faces, Stephen finds solace in the small, fragile glass roses that he keeps hidden in his room. These roses represent the beauty and fragility of life, and they serve as a source of comfort and inspiration for Stephen as he struggles to find his place in the world.
As Stephen grows older, he becomes increasingly aware of the expectations placed on him by his father and the community. He is expected to become a strong and capable man, just like his father, but Stephen feels ill-equipped for this role. He is filled with self-doubt and anxiety, and he becomes increasingly isolated from the people around him.
Despite these challenges, Stephen finds the strength to follow his own path and pursue his passions. He becomes a writer, using his words to express the emotions and experiences that have shaped his life. Through his writing, Stephen finds a sense of purpose and belonging, and he is finally able to let go of the expectations of others and embrace his own identity.
The glass roses is a poignant and beautifully written story that explores the complex and often difficult journey of self-discovery. It is a reminder that we all have the power to overcome our challenges and find our own path in life, no matter how difficult it may seem.
