In the novel “Bastard Out Of Carolina,” readers are immersed in the perspective of an abused child, providing a poignant and detailed portrayal of the experience. This gripping and skillfully written narrative sheds light on the harsh reality of child abuse. The story is narrated by Ruth Anne Boatwright, a child born to a mother contending with the challenges of raising her in a desolate environment. This distressing tale is sure to leave readers profoundly affected. “Bastard Out Of Carolina” guarantees a lasting impact on its audience.
Ruth Anne was born into a family of Boatwrights, renowned throughout the southern region for their rough behavior. She entered the world during a time when the south was hostile towards unwed mothers and their children. However, her mother, Anney, was determined to raise “Bone” in a nurturing and loving environment. Anney did not desire to see Bone become a typical Boatwright woman. Instead, she envisioned her daughter achieving something exceptional in South Carolina, even though it seemed nearly impossible. Anney’s deep affection for Bone was evident in all aspects of their lives. Everything Anney did revolved around Bone and how it would impact her well-being. The union between Mama and Lyle Parsons, a kind and affectionate truck driver, felt like a blessing from God for both Mama and Bone. Lyle’s gentle and humorous nature made him seem like an angel to Anney and Bone. However, their happiness was fleeting. When Lyle tragically died in a car accident, Bone knew that things would never be the same, and she was proven right.
Soon, Mama gave birth to Lyle’s daughter, Reese. Reese’s locks of curly blond hair and her small smile reminded Mama of Lyle every time she looked at her. Mama swore she would never marry again because she could love no man the way she loved Lyle. But soon, Glen Waddell started courting Mama. At first, gentle and loving, Anney thought that he would make a good father for her two children. Little did she know that Glen was hiding dark secrets that would soon tear the family up forever.
After their honeymoon, Mama and “Daddy Glen” purchased a new house in Greenville, South Carolina, which was far away from their previous home and distant from the beloved aunts and uncles who meant so much to Bone and Reese. Initially, Daddy Glen exhibited no signs of hatred or abuse. He showered the children with presents and took Bone on outings. He desired both love and affection. However, right from the start, Bone sensed something concerning in Daddy Glen’s piercing blue eyes. She detected feelings of loathing and scorn. Bone possessed the ability to understand Daddy Glen, and she feared the possible consequences. Over time, Glen’s behavior began to change gradually. He would shout over trivial matters, frequently placing blame on Bone for everything that went wrong. Bone noticed Glen gazing at her in peculiar and alluring ways, and when the abuse eventually ensued, she realized that she had to remain resilient, if only for her Mama’s sake.
The abuse persisted for months, causing Bone to internalize blame. Rather than holding Daddy Glen accountable, she believed the fault was hers. Mama also shifted responsibility onto Bone, urging her to behave when Daddy Glen was around. However, the abuse stemmed from Glen’s intense jealousy towards Bone. He observed how Mama showered her with affection and care, going to great lengths for her and holding onto her tightly. This jealousy turned into furious rage for Glen. He believed that if he could remove Bone from the picture, Mama would be exclusively his. The abuse continued until Aunt Alma noticed severe scars on Bone’s legs. She immediately confronted Anney and revealed the scars. Shocked and appalled, Anney left Daddy Glen. She berated him for abusing their child, unable to fathom that he could be so controlling and overpowering. Despite being far from Daddy Glen, Bone sensed that Mama still loved him despite his mental and physical abuse towards her daughter. Bone knew it was inevitable that Mama would return to Daddy Glen, but she refused to go back with her.
The two remained apart for months until one day, Daddy Glen arrived at the apartment. The subsequent abuse was unlike anything he had ever done. Daddy Glen sexually assaulted Bone, fractured her arm, and left her battered and bleeding. When Mama walked in and saw the scene, she immediately picked up Bone and rushed her to the hospital. However, Daddy Glen soon managed to convince Anney of his remorse, and she took him back. But Bone stayed true to her promise and stayed with her Aunt Alma while Mama left with Daddy Glen by her side. Deep down, Bone knew she would never lay eyes on her beloved mother again.
