Edith Wharton
In chapter eight, Lily receives some heart-breaking news. She finds out that Percy Gryce, whom she has just decided she would like to marry, is already engaged to another woman, Evie Van Osburgh. Lily is extremely upset at this, but I honestly think it is for the best.
"Lily's passing light-heartedness sank beneath a renewed sense of failure. Life was too stupid, too blundering! Why should Percy Gryce's millions be joined to another great fortune?" (Wharton, 74).
Like I said, I think it is a good thing Gryce is not marrying Lily. Lily had all of the wrong intentions for wanting to marry him- mainly for his wealth. I feel she is above doing this and deserves to find a man that she loves and can support her. I'll admit, I'm somewhat biased because I, personally, want her to marry Selden. He seems sweet and I think, even if they do not know it themselves, they both have some feelings for each other.
Prior to reading this section, I thought Lily could potentially end up being with Gryce or Selden. Now, since Gryce is out of the picture (well, who knows with the abundant amount of infidelity prevalent in this novel), I think her options seem to be Selden or Trenor. Selden, who is not particularly wealthy, would make Lily truly happy. Trenor, on the other hand, would be able to provide financial stability but not true happiness. Also, Trenor is currently married, so Lily would probably not be looked well upon by society if she broke up the marriage. Like I already said, I want her to marry Selden, not only because I think they are genuinely meant for each other, but also so Lily does not break up someone else's marriage.
No comments:
Post a Comment