Annie John

The breadfruit tree can grow quite large and produce several of the grapefruit-sized fruit, contributing to its representation as a symbol of personal growth and abundance. The fruit itself is a staple food for many cultures because when it is cooked, its texture approximates bread and its flavor is similar to a potato. It also has a high water content, which is helpful for those living in tropical climates, and it is rich in Vitamin C and potassium. The breadfruit tree and its fruit appear multiple times in Annie’s story. When Annie’s mother tricks her into eating the healthy food, Annie can “tell that it [is] the much hated breadfruit” (83), though her mother tried to disguise it as rice. Even though it is good for her, Annie finds it unpleasant, just as she dislikes her mother’s attempts to prepare her for life as a respectable young lady. In this way, the breadfruit is symbolic of Annie’s mother’s efforts to parent her daughter responsibly and lovingly, for although her intentions are good, her daughter dislikes the fact that these efforts have changed their relationship. Thus, the fruit illustrates the theme of Misinterpreted Parental Love.

It is also significant that the breadfruit tree is native to New Guinea and was spread to other warm climates during the colonial era.