Life is about challenges and the choices made because of those challenges. The result of this impact is either for better or worse. This idea of ​​challenges and choices in life is also found in literature. “Average Waves in Unprotected Waters” by Anne Tyler and The Jungle by Upton Sinclair have similar messages; however, each story displays these messages using different themes, characteristics, and symbols. The short story “Medium Waves in Unprotected Waters” conveys a message similar to that of The Jungle. The message the authors convey in the stories is that life's challenges create choices for the characters that ultimately affect their lives. “It was agreed that they would leave the flowing spring…” (Sinclair, 26). This shows that Jurgis and his family decided to move to America in hopes of a better lifestyle and leave their homeland in Smolensk. Jurgis had to provide a better life for his future wife Ona and made the ultimate decision to leave their homeland. The choices made changed Jurgis and this was the first beginning of change. Although Jurgis left his old home to create a new one, it became much worse than his previous life and subsequently took its toll on him and his family. Like Anne Tyler's short story, the main character, Bet, wanted a better life for herself. "'Yes. Say goodbye to Mom now, Arnold.'" (Tyler 7) This shows Bet and Arnold's departure paths. Bet makes the ultimate decision to leave her son, Arnold, in the care of others. Posts from each story is conveyed differently and appeals differently to each character Jurgis plans to create a better life with his family, while Bet wants to create a better life by getting rid of the only family she has left... middle of paper. ......displays these messages using different themes, characterization, and symbols These similar messages displayed differently help create different ideas and describe stories differently Works Cited “Medium Waves in Unprotected Waters” By Anne Tyler. Of the." Docstoc.com. Np, and Web. November 17, 2013. “Sparknotes.” Jungle themes. Np, and Web. November 17, 2013. “Jungle Symbolism – “The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair.” Jungle Symbolism – “The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair. Np, and Web. November 17, 2013. “The House”. Shmoop. Np, and Web. November 17. 2013. .