Such a Fun Age

The way that Alix and Emira deal with the aftermath of Thanksgiving further illustrates the differences in their characters. Alix obsesses over Kelley’s life, appearance, and choices, while Emira throws herself into her work with Briar, appreciating each little detail of the little person’s life. When compared with Emira, Alix is as almost manic, requiring significant psychological support and being unable to slow down or reflect. In addition, Alix is overly focused on her past: She cannot let go of her high school relationship or allow it not to shadow her present. Meanwhile, throughout the novel and up until this point, Emira, despite her inability to find a career, is reasonably present in her life in a healthy way. Through her week with Briar, for instance, Emira chooses appropriate, fun activities that reflect how much pride Emira takes in understanding and supporting the child she babysits. Much of Such a Fun Age relies on the chasm between Emira’s and Alix’s personality types and psychologies; the greater the conflict, the easier it is to see how different these two women are meant to be.