The story delves into the developing relationship between Mrs. Gage and Peter. Initially, she finds the parrot's constant repetition of learned phrases both annoying and intrusive. However, as time passes, she grows attached to him and discovers that his presence and ability to imitate speech begin to fill the emotional void left by her husband's death. Peter's utterances, though limited, provide her with a sense of connection and familiarity.
Woolf skillfully portrays the nuances of Mrs. Gage's emotional state and the complexities of her grief. The widow finds comfort in Peter's companionship, but at the same time, his presence serves as a poignant reminder of her loss and the absence of her husband's genuine communication.
The story becomes even more poignant when Peter learns the phrase, "Pretty Polly, say what I say," and begins to repeat it incessantly. Despite her best efforts to teach him new phrases, Peter clings stubbornly to this expression, much to Mrs. Gage's frustration and eventual sadness.
"The Widow and the Parrot" is a testament to the human capacity for love and resilience in the face of loss. While it highlights the void left by the absence of a loved one, the story also celebrates the unexpected sources of comfort and connection that can emerge in the midst of grief.