Chapter 8
Response #1: In "Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit," Chapter 8, Jeanette Winterson explores the subjects of sexuality, identity, and cultural expectations. This chapter examines Jeanette's path to self-acceptance and the challenges she encounters as she is trying to combine her wants with her background as a practicing Christian. The portrayal of Jeanette and Melanie's developing romance is one feature of this chapter that sticks out. Winterson sensitively explores same-sex desire and captures the complexity of Jeanette's feelings. Melanie and Jeanette's relationship is gently and innocently portrayed, emphasizing the importance of their bond to Jeanette's process of self-discovery. The overall focus of Chapter 8 of "Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit" is on cultural expectations, sexuality, and identity. The difficulties experienced by people in conservative situations are highlighted by Winterson's moving depiction of Jeanette's growing relati...