Golden Girl

The title of the book, which is also the title of Vivi’s book, is an important symbol and motif in the story. It is derived from the song Brett wrote for Vivi when they were in high school, also titled “Golden Girl.” This, being the origin of Vivi’s book, has multiple levels of symbolism. Firstly, the book goes on to become Vivi’s greatest success, reaching the top of the bestseller lists. However, it was born out of a choice that Vivi later regretted all her life—her lie to Brett about her pregnancy. In this way, the title speaks to the theme of Introspection on Life’s Achievements and Regrets and how the two coexist.

Secondly, the title connects to The Power of Fate and Destiny Versus Choice and Agency. Although Vivi regrets the lie, she later learns through Martha that if not for it, she and Brett would have never found this level of success. Thus, this outcome necessitated this specific series of events leading up to it. Additionally, the origin of the song, and so the title, speaks to the theme of Growing Up After Parental Loss in Adulthood.