Finding Perfect

The holidays function as an emotional and structural motif, framing the narrative’s timeline and charting the characters’ emotional journey from isolation to connection. The story unfolds between Thanksgiving and Christmas, seasons traditionally associated with family and togetherness, which initially serves to amplify Six’s profound sense of loss. Her private grief stands in stark contrast to the festive atmosphere. Early in the novella, when Daniel finds Six sad, she confesses, “I’m thinking about how much I hate the holidays” (16). For her, this time of year is a painful and recurring reminder of the child she gave up. This initial connection between the holidays and her sorrow establishes the central emotional conflict, positioning the ideal of family as something that feels inaccessible to her.

The holidays also symbolize Daniel’s emotional growth. At home for Thanksgiving break, he resists doing chores, leaving them to his mother and sisters. At Friendsgiving, he ends up causing conflict among his friends, unable to control his strong emotions after his phone call with Graham. This shows that Daniel hasn’t learned to take responsibility for his role in adult relationships, either with his family or friends.

However, the motif’s meaning evolves as the narrative progresses. The story’s climax and resolution occur during Six and Daniel’s trip to meet Matteo over Christmas break. This event redeems the holiday season, transforming it from a time of grief into one of miraculous reunion and joy. Daniel’s final realization that their meeting is “A damn Christmas miracle” (80) cements this transformation, emphasizing the theme of Redefining Family Beyond Biological Ties and showing Daniel’s newfound emotional maturity.