The definition of coming of age is the attainment of maturity. In these three stories “To Every Thing There Is A Season” by Alistair MacLeod, “The Sunrise on the Veld,” by Doris Lessing, and “Stones,” by Sandre Birdsell, all of the same theme “Coming of Age.” They all go through hardship, pain, and loss. In each of these stories the protagonist realizes reality in three different ways: by facing death, by watching one closest to them get hurt or made a fool, and by realizing his or hers surroundings.

Firstly in the story “Sunrise on the Veld,” by Doris Lessing the main character notices the real world by seeing death in a harsh way. In this story their was a boy who lived in South Africa who had just turned 15 years old. In the boys …show more content…
Also, it was special because this Christmas was most likely the last Christmas with the 11 year old boys father. At the very end the father tells his son, the protagonist, “Every man moves on.” Alistair MacLeod, (305) The quote proved that the father was telling his son that it is time for him to leave behind his childhood and start becoming a man of the house. The next quotes the father says “ But there is no grieve. He leaves good things behind.” Alistair MacLeod, (305) The father is indicating to the protagonist that even though Santa Claus is not real there is many good moments in the future. So in closing one can determine reality through hints, for example the father hints about his sickness.

After seeing “Sunrise on the Veld” by Doris Lessing, “Stones” by Sandre Birdsell, and “To Every Thing There Is A Season” by Alistair MacLeod there are various ways of facing reality by examining death, by observing wicked people, and by clues to determine the real world. They all have a turning point in life if it meant by giving clues or seeing death. In these stories the protagonist always loses something they can relate to. Each one of us that becomes a person will face maturity no matter what