1. Shift in Perspective: The story begins with a young, naive narrator, but the ending reveals a more mature and reflective voice. This shift creates a sense of melancholy and regret. The narrator realizes the impact of her actions on Miss Lottie and the tragedy of her situation.
2. Symbolism of the Marigolds: The marigolds, once symbols of youthful innocence and beauty, now symbolize the harsh realities of life. The wilting and dying marigolds parallel Miss Lottie's own fading life and the crushing poverty she endures. This creates a mood of despair and loss.
3. Sensory Imagery: Collier uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of the decaying marigolds. "Their petals were dry and brittle, and their color, once a vibrant gold, was now a faded, dusty yellow," she writes. These images evoke a sense of decay and disillusionment.
4. The Act of Destruction: The narrator's act of destroying the marigolds, though seemingly insignificant at the time, now weighs heavily on her conscience. This creates a sense of guilt and self-blame.
5. The Reflection on Time: The narrator's realization that the marigolds have not been planted since the incident emphasizes the passage of time and the weight of her youthful actions. This creates a sense of timelessness and the lasting impact of choices.
6. Tone Shift: The tone of the story shifts from youthful exuberance and innocence to a somber, contemplative tone. This reflects the narrator's newfound understanding of the world and the consequences of her actions.
7. Contemplative Ending: The story ends with the narrator reflecting on her actions and their impact. "I never saw Miss Lottie again after that," she writes. "But I can still see her, standing there in the afternoon sunlight, her face as white as the petals of the marigolds." This creates a sense of closure, but also a lingering sense of sadness and unanswered questions.
Overall, the ending of "Marigolds" evokes a complex and layered mood of melancholy, regret, despair, guilt, and ultimately, acceptance. The story serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life, the importance of empathy, and the lasting impact of our choices.