Narrative Analysis

By Genevieve M. Nangit
February 26, 2024

Narrative Analysis of “The Bath”: Familial Theory

The familial theory was expressed through the relationship of Norma Jeane with her mother
Gladys.

Sentences
Did I want any other happiness? No, just to be with her. Maybe to cuddle a little and sleep in her
bed with her if she’d let me. I loved her so. (Page 15)

And giggling like naughty pursued children, Mother and Daughter hurried down flights of stairs
as down a mountainside, breathless and gripping hands, and so out! Outside! (Page 14)

This day, this birthday, would be the first that Norma Jeane would remember clearly. This
wonderful day with Gladys who was sometimes Mother, or Mother who was sometimes Gladys.
(Page 15)

It would be said of me that I was unhappy as a child, that my childhood was a desperate one, but
let me tell you I was never unhappy. So long as I had my mother I was never unhappy and one
day there was my father, too, to love. (Page 23)

How Norma Jeane would love her blond baby doll! One of the great loves of her childhood.
(Page 28)

Analysis
Norma Jeane at her young age defined happiness in relation to her mother Gladys. Norma Jeane
desire to be with her mother because she cuddles her, play along with her, celebrate her birthday
and give her gifts.

Reference
“Blonde” by Joyce Carol Oates. 2000. 4th Estate: London, UK.