So what does the story signify, then? Many things. It offers a critique of the class system, a story of initiation into the adult world of sex and death, an amusing examination of family dynamics, and a touching portrait of a child struggling to establish herself as an independent entity in the face of nearly overwhelming parental influence.
Very deep themes here. These kinds of serious themes that affect a lot of people---coming of age, death, family issues, etc.---are very important to write about so that it sheds light on them and it makes people feel seen.
