I Will Always Write Back

I Will Always Write Back

by

Caitlin Alifirenka, Martin Ganda, and Liz Welch

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I Will Always Write Back: Part 6: Caitlin, August 15, 2003 Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
In Pennsylvania, Caitlin spends the whole night tracking Martin’s flight. She and her family go to the airport an hour early with a big poster to welcome Martin. Finally, Martin comes out, and Caitlin recognizes him.
The major drama in Martin’s story is largely over. This section builds suspense until the big moment when Caitlin and Martin finally meet in person.
Themes
Friendship Theme Icon
Caitlin and Martin hug while Caitlin’s mom takes photos. Martin greets the other family members as if they’re his own family. Martin has arrived with nothing but a toothbrush, some things for Wallace, and the clothes on his back—Caitlin’s mom has promised to take care of everything else. On the way back, they pass through Villanova, and Caitlin’s mom points it out to Martin.
The meet-up between Caitlin and Martin is joyful and suggests that the hard work and sacrifices that each of them has undergone were all worth it. The fact that Martin has arrived with almost nothing in terms of possessions suggests how totally he trusts Caitlin and her family to take care of him.
Themes
Kindness and Generosity Theme Icon
Friendship Theme Icon
Family Theme Icon
Education Theme Icon