The House of Mirth: Blog 4
Edith Wharton

    As I finish chapter six, I am still extremely confused about what is going on currently in the novel. So many characters have been introduced that they are all running together in my mind. I also still don't know how any of these people even know each other. A few things are becoming clear, but, at the same time, becoming more confusing. After a long conversation between Lily Bart and Selden, I am left with explanations that lead to even more questions. Selden thought Lily was interested in Gryce, and Lily thought Selden was interested in Mrs. Dorsett. I don't know how true either of these ideas are though. During their talk, the two decide they will not marry

"'Do you want to marry me?' she asked.
He broke into a laugh. 'No, I don't want to..." (Wharton, 58).

I find it extremely awkward that they discussed the subject, especially since they never dated. I also find Selden's response to be quite rude, since he laughed at Bart. However, it seems things were extremely different during this time; I can not even imagine having this conversation with anyone.  

However, near the end of their talk, something seems to come up in the conversation that might lead to them confessing their true love for each other. However, for some reason Lily remembers she must get home just before anything happens in the conversation. I honestly have no idea if the two will ever get together throughout the novel, or if the abrupt ending to their evening was some kind of foreshadowing that their friendship is not going to progress. Also, while I am not really sure at all where the plot is going right now, I'm sure it will somehow involve both of their future relationships or lack there of.