The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie

Flavia’s passion is chemistry. Her interest began when she found Harriet’s book An Elementary Study of Chemistry, which helped Flavia feel close to her mother. When she was introduced to the chemistry laboratory in Buckshaw, with its advanced equipment and shelves of books, it opened a new world for Flavia. Chemistry symbolizes the stability and assimilation that Flavia craves but does not receive from her family. Chemistry makes sense to Flavia in a way that people do not, particularly because it abides by comprehendible scientific rules. The results of Flavia’s experiments are predictable, unlike the actions of people, and even when they are not, they can be explained through logic and deduction. Flavia longs for bonds with her family members, like the chemical bonds she observes in her experiments, but she cannot make them form.

Chemistry allows Flavia to shine, to show her personal expertise, and symbolizes her self-esteem and self-identity. Her scientific pursuits shaped her into a critical thinker, which is how she successfully solves the twin murder mysteries.

The story frequently references things that had belonged to Harriet. Books, the kimono that Flavia wears in her bedroom, pearls that Flavia stole from Ophelia—these are all reminders of Harriet because they were her possessions.