"Wednesdays and Fridays"

“Wednesdays and Fridays” by Elizabeth Jolley is story told through letters from a “landlord” (Mabel Dorris Morgan) to her “resident” (Donald Morgan).  Mrs. Morgan constantly complaints about Mr. Morgan not paying rent, “one single bed sheet, one bottle carpet cleaning detergent,” and many other items. 

            Throughout the story I noticed that the number two was used frequently.  Mabel writes her son letters every two days (asks for rent every five days), Donald gives her two dollars then takes it back, Donald and Pearl are two guests staying there, and she has too many complaints for Donald.  Quickly I realized that the point Jolley is trying to make is that everyone deserves a second chance.  Even through Donald has not paid his rent, his fees, and expenses; Mrs. Morgan still gives him a second chance.  However, Mrs. Morgan repeatedly gives Donald multiple chances because, just like many other mothers, she tries to spoil her child.

            Even after Donald owes her five weeks of rent, she gives him money for chocolates and “gift-wrapped confectionery,” Mrs. Morgan cannot say no to her son.  As the story progresses, she continues to give him money for roses, “a boat and a grappling iron,” and Midnight Ecstasy lipstick.  Mrs. Morgan is actually committing an unjust act by not allowing her son to grow into a man.  Donald doesn’t seem to know how to take responsibility for his actions.  In the last letter there seems to be a transition; Mrs. Morgan seems a bit forgiving and is “looking forward to going on the river in a row boat” with Donald, Pearl, and Mary.  This could signify his upcoming as a man and that he has found a job to help take accountability for his actions.  Mothers can only do so much.