The Bean Trees

Lou Ann accurately appraises Taylor's opinion of men (as if they were put on the earth simply so someone could use the urinals), but even as she does so, Taylor begins to branch out from this viewpoint. The impetus for this change is, not surprisingly, Estevan. Taylor idealizes Estevan, but more surprisingly, it is Estevan who allows Taylor to realize several of her own strengths; while others respect Taylor for her fortitude, Estevan cherishes her for more poetic qualities. Taylor at first dismisses the idea, but Kingsolver portrays her as relenting against Estevan's compliments and steadily accepting this new view of herself.