Norman Rockwell's America is a place that never quite existed, but could have. Who hasn't looked back upon Thanksgiving get-togethers and imagined a scene quite similar to the one portrayed in Freedom from Want? Surely, Grandma served a luscious turkey that large and that beautiful. Of course every person at the dinner table was laughing and smiling and having an absolutely fantastic time. Rockwell so graciously gave us a seat at that warm, welcoming table. Cheerfulness is contagious; thus, our spirits lighten simply by viewing this image. Look at the glimmer in Uncle Bob's eye as he warmly glances in your direction. "Take your seat, join the fun!"
Traditional gender roles
are confirmed through the portrayal of Grandma and Grandpa. Surely,
Grandma has been laboring away all day in the kitchen while Grandpa so
cordially entertained the visitors. Although sweat pants and a T-shirt
would have been the most comfortable attire for a day of baking, Grandma
knows that proper ladies wear their pretty dresses on all occasions.
She finally serves her masterpiece in a spotless white apron. Proper
women don't get frazzled and messy. Meanwhile, Grandpa pulled out
his fanciest suit for the occasion and proudly shares in the recognition
for a great meal.