Social Transgressions- Annie on My Mind

In Annie on My Mind, it is not difficult to see what the main social transgression is in the novel: Same-sex relationships. This novel is just plastered with this transgression, and is one of the major themes also. Throughout the novel, I feel that the characters whom are affected by the social transgressions associated with same-sex relationships are both punished and affirmed for their choices.

This novel's strength, for me, was how relevant same-sex relationships are today. The way they are viewed is still very similar today as it was in the 70's simply because some people are completely open to the idea of them, or just completely intolerant to the lifestyle. An example of intolerance in the novel is when Mrs. Poindexter is made aware of Liza and Annie's relationship while they are housesitting. She puts Liza up to the Foster school board for expulsion. Mrs. Poindexter does turns with the reputation of Foster's "on her mind." Even though Liza is persecuted, she is never expelled so I would say she is affirmed for her sexual orientation.

 In the novel, the dialogue between Liza and Annie shows that they know society thinks something is wrong with them. When Annie says, "No one knows for sure that we're gay except you and Ms. Stevenson and Ms. Widmer,"(pg. 196) shows they are doing their best to hide their relationship because they will be socially "persecuted" by everyone around.

Ms. Stevenson and Ms. Widmer are also an example of social transgression because of their relationship together. When Foster's finds out they are "together" they are both fired, because they are like an "ear infection" (pg. 221) for the school. Liza was let off and they were not because the board thought "teachers had to much influence on students" (pg. 222). Because of their role in society and their sexual orientation, they were punished.