Rites of passage through the tunnel

Growing up

Rites of passage mark and celebrate important changes in life. For many, this is the transition between adolescence and adulthood. In the short story, Through the Tunnel, Jerry's transition to adulthood is indicated when he is challenged by a few boys who can swim through a cave, under the water. Throughout the short story, we can clearly see the different conflicts that Jerry faces to earn the respect and acceptance from the local boys.

While on vacation at a beach, Jerry notices there is a safe side and a "wild" side. He has been to this beach with his mother before. This year, he wants to explore the wild beach alone rather than stay next to his mom on the safe beach. When he finally ventures alone to the wild bay, Jerry has to prove his manhood. So he is challenged by a few native boys who can swim through a cave, or tunnel, under the water that leads to another side of the bay. Jerry decides he will learn to hold his breath for two minutes in order to accomplish the same task as the native boys. He buys goggles, practices holding his breath, and he spends four days diving down to the bottom of the bay near the entrance of the tunnel. His nose bleeds tremendously, but he continues to practice for the day he will swim through the tunnel. When the day comes, Jerry meets with unforeseen complications inside the tunnel but he struggles to improvise and persevere in order to save his life. Fortunately, he succeeds and conquers the challenge.

Jerry's need to conquer the tunnel represents his need to grow up, to act independently and to acquire the confidence and self-respect that come from accomplishment. Once he succeeds in his challenge, he no longer feels the need to be with the other boys. He has no need to show off or prove himself to them. He does not need their approval or acceptance since he now accepts himself. Jerry is no longer a little boy.

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