Mr. Wrong Number

Painter positions the new apartment that Olivia rents in Omaha as symbolic of independence. When Olivia first leaves Chicago, she doesn’t have a job, boyfriend, or a permanent residence. Staying with Jack and Colin feels like a step backward in her adult life, and makes Olivia feel dependent on her brother and his friend. For this reason, she’s afraid of getting “so comfy in [their] condo that [she forgets] all about finding a place” (137). Jack and Colin haven’t badgered her about moving out, but Olivia is conscious of the fact that living with them compromises her sense of autonomy. Securing the loft apartment in the same building empowers Olivia and reminds her of who she is as an independent woman.

The loft apartment also a represents Olivia’s journey of Self-Discovery During Times of Transition. The unit is a studio, “but the loft is like the bedroom so it feels more like a one-bedroom” (139). It also has high ceilings, is located downtown, and has a balcony with a view of the city. These facets of the space align with Olivia’s personal desires and dreams and securing the space is a significant step on her journey to claiming her independence and embracing the life she wants to build.