Bobbie Ann Mason's short story "Shiloh" is a story about what happens to a marriage when a couple forgets to appreciate their relationship and forgets about the love and the commitment they once made to each other. No I am not a fan of romance novels, but this story got me to think about how Norma Jean and Leroy allowed their marriage to end.
             Mason's story is well told and has all the classic literary tools that make for a good story. I particularly liked the setting because it seems real, in today's world. It informs the reader how "Subdivisions, USA" originated. No one noticed how small towns and farmers disappeared; people only realized these places and people were no longer around when they finally looked. No one noticed how big cities and subdivisions came to be. Again, people just noticed these cities and subdivisions were there one day. This setting symbolizes how Leroy never noticed Norma Jean was changing until he took the time to examine her closer. Leroy did not know or simply did not care to think about the changes Norma Jean was experiencing. Norma Jean is just as guilty. Although, Norma Jean is interested in improving and educating herself, she does not take the time to consider the changes her husband has had to face due to his accident. The opportunity for this couple to realize and adapt to their changing outlook on life is available in a familiar setting, their home. Everyone goes through changes in their lives, hopefully for the better, because of the experience of living day to day. However, when two people love each other they learn to accept these changes. Acceptance and compromise can make a relationship stronger.
             The characters in "Shiloh" are quite typical in the traditional sense. Norma Jean works because she does not have any kids and occupies her time with improving herself. Nothing is wrong with that. Leroy worked and now is disabled and tr...