I Stand Here Ironing, Tillie Olsen: Summary & Analysis

‘I Stand Here Ironing’: Plot Summary The short story 'I Stand Here Ironing' by Tillie Olsen, originally titled 'Help Her to Believe', was first published in Prairie Schooner in 1956 and later included in Olsen's collection 'Tell Me a Riddle' in 1961. The story is presented as a monologue by a mother who reflects on her relationship with her daughter, Emily, while ironing clothes. A Mother's Reflection The story begins with the mother contemplating a meeting requested by one of Emily's teachers. The teacher wants to discuss Emily's situation, and the mother acknowledges that she doesn't possess all the answers to help her daughter navigate life. She reflects on the beauty of Emily's infancy and reveals that Emily's father abandoned them when she was young. The mother had to work and leave Emily with a neighbor, experiencing the challenges of the Great Depression. As Emily grew older, she faced adversity. The mother recalls Emily's str…