Analysis of “A Rose for Emily” In William Faulkner’s short story, “A Rose for Emily,” obsession plays a key role in the developing personality of the protagonist, Emily Grierson. Because Emily was never allowed to be independent and self-sufficient growing up, she goes to great lengths to preserve companionship and deter her loneliness later on in life. Faulkner illustrates Emily’s desire for company by focusing on her obsessive and psychotic tendencies. At the …showed first 75 words of 456 total…

…showed last 75 words of 456 total…of a head” and on top of it is a “long strand of iron gray hair” (33). Emily Grierson’s neglect and lack of freedom during childhood eventually leads to a murderous obsession for company. She lives her life, longing for love and a sense of belonging, which her father has never given her. Therefore, she takes it upon herself to keep the people closest to her heart by her side forever, using whatever means necessary.