"An Ounce of Cure" is a short story by Alice Munro, first published in 1968. The story tells the tale of a young woman named Mary who, after being stood up by her boyfriend on New Year's Eve, turns to alcohol in an attempt to numb the pain and disappointment she feels.
At the beginning of the story, Mary is shown as a typical teenage girl, excited to go out and celebrate the New Year with her friends and boyfriend. However, when her boyfriend fails to show up, Mary finds herself feeling rejected and alone. In an effort to dull the pain of her feelings, Mary turns to alcohol and gets drunk for the first time.
As the night wears on and Mary continues to drink, she begins to feel more and more out of control. She makes a series of poor decisions, including agreeing to go home with a stranger and nearly getting into a car accident. Ultimately, Mary wakes up the next morning feeling ashamed and regretful for her actions.
Through the course of the story, Munro deftly explores the themes of teenage rebellion, the consequences of poor decision-making, and the dangers of alcohol abuse. Mary's experience serves as a cautionary tale, showing the reader the potential consequences of succumbing to peer pressure and making poor choices when under the influence of alcohol.
Despite the harsh lesson that Mary learns, the story also offers a glimmer of hope. As the title suggests, the story ultimately presents alcohol as a temporary fix, rather than a true "cure" for Mary's problems. By the end of the story, Mary has learned from her mistakes and is able to move on, ultimately finding a more fulfilling and healthy way to cope with her feelings of rejection and disappointment.
In conclusion, "An Ounce of Cure" is a poignant and thought-provoking short story that offers valuable insights into the complexities of the teenage experience and the dangers of alcohol abuse. Through its compelling characters and compelling themes, Munro's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of making responsible choices and finding healthy ways to cope with life's challenges.
