Providence, Rhode Island, was where much of Gilman's youth was spent and where she was able to be herself. Most of her friends were male, and she was described as a "tomboy," she stated that this was a moment in her life, where she felt unashamed.

 Providence, Rhode Island, was where much of Gilman's youth was spent and where she was able to be herself. Most of her friends were male, and she was described as a "tomboy," she stated that this was a moment in her life, where she felt unashamed.