The Lady in Red

In chapter 7 of A Prayer for Owen Meany, Tabitha Wheelwright's scandalous past is revealed to us. The red dress she purchased from the store that supposedly burned down was her singing costume every Wednesday night. The store, Jerrold's, never burned down. The whole story was a lie. How does Johnny and Owen view her now that they now she is a liar? On page 347 it reveals, "I was trembling. My mother was a singer- in some joint! She was someone called "The Lady in Red"! She'd had a career-in nightlife! I looked at Owen; he appeared strangely at ease- he was almost calm, and he was smiling." Owen's loving view of Tabby will never change. He understands that all humans have flaws and he forgives her for those blemishes. He proves to be a Christ-like figure once again. On the other hand, John is conflicted by his mother's secret. It seems as if he feels betrayed by the lie.