In the book, Chopin speaks of "the lovers" quite frequently. Immediately following, "the lady in black" is mentioned. In chapter eight Chopin writes, "The lovers were just entering the grounds of the pension. They were leaning toward each other as the water-oaks bent from the sea. There was not a particle of earth beneath their feet... The lady in black, creeping behind them, looked a trifle paler and more jaded than usual" (Chopin 28). This scene was when Madame Ratignolle was trying to convince Robert to let Mrs. Pontellier alone. Robert refused. Again in chapter 12, the lovers and the lady in black are mentioned, "The lovers, who had laid their plans the night before, were already strolling toward the wharf. The lady in black, with her Sunday prayer book... was following them at no great distance" (Chopin 43). I think the lovers are Mrs. Pontellier and Robert. The lady in black could be Mrs. Pontellier's consciences or society. It seems as though the lady in black is always following the lovers wherever they go. Society does not allow for affairs, and maybe Mrs. Ponellier knows what she's doing wrong, and she has a guilty conscience. Throughout the book, the lovers and the lady in black are always mentioned together.
I could see why the author picked the color black. Dark colors respresent a sense of mystery or wrong doing while bright colors like pink shows fun expressions. This is such an eyeopener
ReplyDeleteI also agree with Melissa on the author decision on picking black for the color. It represents a type of sin or something looked down upon. Throughout the book Edna is looked down upon by others because of her difference. Good job on picking out a small detail such as a color scheme.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your opinion on the "lady in the black" being Mrs. Pontellier's thoughts. Mrs. Pontellier has a guilty conscious whenever she is with Robert, and deep down she knows that Mr. Pontellier is a good husband. Society does play a huge role in the fact hat her and Robert's relationship is secretive. If anyone knew what was happening as their relationship progressed, or the feelings being developed, they would certainly be frowned upon.
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