When Amanda confronts Laura about not attending her business classes, Laura unconsciously goes over to the Victrola and begins playing. People choosing to ignore their problems will make hiding an involuntary habit. Later, Tom will confess to his mother that he believes Laura "lives in a world of her own" (1430). Laura quickly avoids an uncomfortable first meeting with Jim, by saying she hasn't "finished playing the Victrola," unwilling to attempt any conversation (1435). The unicorn is a symbol of Laura's uniqueness. The unicorn is translucent much like Laura's character. Jim sees right through Laura's psychological problems, telling her that she has "inferiority complex," explaining her difficulties with facing reality (1446). The unicorn is also fragile, much like Laura's physical condition. When the horn breaks off, Laura says that it will make the unicorn "feel less-freakish," (1449). Jim had just made Laura feel normal by saying that the world is "full of common people" (1447). Many people hide from reality by avoiding challenging situations, while other people will simply run away. In every conflict at home, Tom escapes by leaving the apartment. After one harsh argument with his mother, he proclaims "I"m going to the movies," a reoccurring response he uses for every confrontation (1418). Although Tom is not going to the movies, it is a simple excuse for him to avoid the reality of his frustrating life. Families that are unable to accept reality will place blame on each other, completely unaware of their own faults. .
Evans 3.
Williams illustrates that it can be difficult for people to accept change through the lives of the Wingfields. There is an idea that Tom intends to make change, admitting to Jim that he's "planning to change" (1437). Throughout Tom's life he has made every decision based on the best interest of his family. Amanda has said things like "what right have you" and "jeopardize the security of us all," creating a sense of responsibility and obligation for him (1417).
