Edna swimming metaphor

Chapter 10 sees the Pontelliers and the Ratignolles go to the beach, with Robert following behind. Edna wonders why Robert doesn't join them and is upset. When they arrive at the sea, Edna suddenly can swim and is overcome with joy."But that night she was like the little tottering, stumbling, clutching child, who of a sudden realizes its powers, and walks for the first time alone, boldly and with over confidence." (Chopin 37) However, when Edna decides to swim out very far, she suddenly realizes the limit to this happiness. This is a metaphor for her relationship with Mr. Pontellier compared to Robert. When her affair with Robert began, it was like that sudden feeling of happiness that overtook her when she first swam. But, when she swims out too deep, it is her realizing the reality of her marriage, and that she cannot truly be happy.