Main character's loneliness in all grown up by Jami Attenberg

This study explores the theme of loneliness in All Grown Up, a novel by Jami Attenberg, with a particular focus on the emotional state is to examine how loneliness is depicted through personal relationship, social expectations, and the main character’s internal psychological landscape This study aims to answer the following question: how is loneliness is depicted in All Grown Up, and in what ways is the main character coping with and responding to emotional isolation? The aim is to analyze the representation of loneliness as a major force influencing identity, interpersonal interactions, and life perspectives in the narrative. A qualitative descriptive method was used in this study. This study is based on the New Criticism theoretical framework, which emphasizes the close reading of literary texts as independent units of meaning. This approach focuses on the analysis of structure, characterization, dialogue, and symbolism in the novel without considering external context such as the author’s biography or historical background. This analysis highlights how literary devices reflects the complexity of psychological conflicts and emotional disconnections experienced by the main character. The findings reveal that loneliness in All Grown Up is manifested through a lack of emotional intimacy in familial, social, and romantic context. The narrative depicts ongoing internal conflict, emotional dissonance, and a constant search for meaning amidst the pressures of modern adulthood. The relationships in the novel fail to provide satisfaction or a sense of belonging, reinforcing isolation as a recurring theme. Ultimately, loneliness functions not only as a personal struggle but also as a representations of the existential crisis of contemporary urban life.