Laid In Boys And Girls By Alice Munro

In the short story “Boys and Girls,” by Alice Munro Laird is a dynamic character who undergoes emotional and physical changes. In the story, the pressure of society influences how individuals portray themselves amongst others.

First of all, Laird is a gentle and loyal character who is compelled to act tough because of society’s standards. Laird’s gentle disposition helps strengthen the bond he has with his sister, while his fragile personality contrasts with her strong-willed attitude. During their childhood, Laird and his sister often sang songs as a form of comfort which corroborates the strength of their relationship. Laird’s kindness and gentleness impacts his relationships with others. Correspondingly, Laird’s loyalty is prevalent in the story. During
his childhood, he looked up to his older sister and respected her. Laird’s obedience for his father his shown when he tells him that his sister purposely let Flora escape. Furthermore, he is immensely impacted by the unwritten rule of society regarding gender norms. Laird is forced to leave behind his childhood on the journey to manhood. Overall, Laird’s gentleness and loyalty are prominent during his childhood, but as grows older he is expected to become a ‘man.’ Additionally, the concept of growing up is presented in the story. The real world can be a cruel place, but growing up means facing this reality. Society does not validate offences against its rules and standards. Gender stereotyping can be one of the problems we endure as we grow up.

Moreover, society determines the expectations which are a vital part of the culture the narrator grows up with.
Many communities have either traditional ceremonies or cultural depictions that signify the end of childhood. In this story, the shift from childhood to adulthood is a turning point when the children are prepared to become a stereotypical man and women. This theme is important to society, because it allows reflection upon judgmental and stereotypical perspectives. People should be allowed to express themselves openly without fearing that they have opposed the standards of society. For example, during her childhood the protagonist often has dreams about being a hero but as she grows older, she dismisses the visions. The environment people live in help shape and mold them into the type of person they aspire to be. Likewise, in the story this concept is prevalent. Laird is imposed by society’s expectations regarding gender norms to become a ‘man.’ He is immensely impacted by the culture he lives in because it influences him to change his outlook and his self-image. Social standards are still prominent in society today. These unwritten rules and regulations are a burden to those who do not fit
in.

In conclusion, Laird epitomizes the impact social pressure has on indivduals. His journey to manhood consists of many changes because of society’s constant pressure. ocial standards and expectations immensely influence people.