How Does Caitlin O'koren Change Throught Dreamland By Sarah Dessen

Katharine Graham

2 min read

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02-12-2024

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Sarah Dessen's Dreamland follows Caitlin O'Keefe's journey of self-discovery as she navigates the complexities of first love, family, and finding her place in the world. While the novel doesn't offer a dramatic, overnight transformation, Caitlin undergoes a significant and subtle evolution throughout the story. Her growth is less about a sudden epiphany and more about a gradual accumulation of experiences that reshape her perspective and strengthen her character.

From Lost to Found: Caitlin's Initial State

At the beginning of Dreamland, Caitlin is presented as somewhat adrift. She's a talented artist, but her passion feels stifled by a sense of obligation to her family and a fear of disappointing them. Her relationship with her mother is strained, marked by unspoken resentments and a lack of genuine connection. She carries a quiet sadness, a sense of being unseen and unheard. This internal struggle manifests in her reluctance to fully embrace her artistic abilities and her tendency to downplay her own needs.

The Impact of Relationships: Love, Friendship, and Family

Caitlin's interactions with other characters propel her growth. Her relationship with Rogan, though initially exciting and romantic, pushes her to confront her anxieties and insecurities. Rogan's unwavering support and understanding offer her a safe space to explore her emotions and vulnerabilities. Simultaneously, her friendships with her co-workers at the amusement park, particularly her bond with her best friend, provide a sense of belonging and acceptance that she's lacked before. These relationships challenge her preconceived notions and encourage her to break free from self-imposed limitations. Furthermore, her evolving relationship with her mother allows for a gradual healing of past wounds and a more honest communication.

Embracing Her Identity: Artistic Expression and Self-Acceptance

Throughout the novel, Caitlin’s artistic journey mirrors her personal growth. Initially, her art feels like a burden, a skill she's expected to master rather than a passion to express herself. As she navigates her relationships and confronts her personal struggles, her artwork becomes a vital outlet for expressing her emotions and experiences. Her art evolves, becoming more authentic and reflective of her inner world. This artistic expression is intrinsically linked to her growing sense of self-acceptance and confidence.

The Transformation: A Quiet Revolution

Caitlin's transformation isn't a dramatic shift but a quiet revolution within herself. By the novel's end, she's a more confident and self-assured individual. While she still faces challenges, she possesses a newfound strength and a deeper understanding of her own identity. She learns to prioritize her own needs and aspirations without feeling guilty or selfish. She's found her voice, both literally and figuratively. This quiet strength and resilience, coupled with her renewed artistic passion, represents the culmination of her journey. She's no longer the lost and uncertain girl from the beginning; she's a young woman beginning to fully realize her potential.