Why did Tom and Becky decide to go for a picnic?

Interesting question! In the book The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, Tom and Becky decided to go for a picnic.

When Becky first instigated the idea, her motives were quite different. At the time, she was upset with Tom. He was talking to another girl (Amy Lawrence), despite their “engagement” and his declaration of love to her. Consequently, she wanted to gain his attention and get revenge. As the text shows:

“she [Becky]...

Interesting question! In the book The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, Tom and Becky decided to go for a picnic.

When Becky first instigated the idea, her motives were quite different. At the time, she was upset with Tom. He was talking to another girl (Amy Lawrence), despite their “engagement” and his declaration of love to her. Consequently, she wanted to gain his attention and get revenge. As the text shows:

“she [Becky] glanced ever so furtively at Tom, but he talked right along to Amy Lawrence about the terrible storm on the island”

However, Tom and Becky’s relationship was eventually mended. Consequently, the picnic soon had a different purpose. Although the purpose was not initially revealed, Tom and Becky were quite excited. As the text reveals:

“The child’s [Becky] delight was boundless; and Tom’s not more moderate.”

Eventually, the readers ascertain the reason for the picnic. For Tom and Becky, the picnic represented their “wedding.” Becky even saved a piece of their “wedding cake” to keep for later.

Thus, the picnic served multiple purposes. Initially, Becky instigated the idea for revenge and to gain Tom’s attention again; however, as the book progressed, it is clear that the picnic became their “wedding” in the children’s minds.