Out of the Dust

Out of the Dust

by

Karen Hesse

Out of the Dust: 89. Let Down Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
Billie Jo gets invited to play piano at graduation. However, while on stage, she realizes she cannot play anymore, so she just sits still. In the crowd, Arley lowers his head and Miss Freeland cries. Eventually, Billie Jo gets up and walks off stage. She thinks about how she and her father should see Doc Rice for her hands and for her father’s spots. Since that hasn’t happened yet, she worries that she and her father are “turning to dust.”
This is a terrible moment for Billie Jo, as she realizes what little talent she had left is gone. Miss Freeland’s reaction only makes matters worse because the last thing Billie Jo wants is to be pitied. After the graduation, Billie Jo feels like there is nothing left of her—she is turning to dust just like the world around her. 
Themes
Nature, Survival, and the Dust Bowl Theme Icon
Coming of Age Theme Icon
Quotes