Reality Bites Life seems to always be about trial and error. Making mistakes is a big part of growing up. Nevertheless, as mistakes are made, there are always valuable lessons to be learned. John Updike illustrates this point, as he guides us through a day in the life of “Sammy”, the central character in the story, A&P. John Updike teaches the reader about growing up, as he develops Sammy’s character through phases of …showed first 75 words of 682 total…

…showed last 75 words of 682 total…s point at the end of the story. Sammy realizes that the world isn’t as bright and inviting as it seems. However, as Sammy begins to experience this new world of trial and error, growth and maturity begins to take place. As the author proceeds to develop the character, the reader is able to see this clear process of maturation in the life of Sammy, through the individual phases of innocence, experiences, and understanding.