The House of Mirth: Blog 10
Edith Wharton

     In chapters three and four of book two, lots of drama ensues. Bertha, who I've mentioned my hatred for many times, will not allow Lily to return to their cruise. I'm not sure how she can simply leave someone in Europe stranded, but only Bertha would find a way to do that. I honestly have no idea how Lily gets back. Selden takes her to the Stepney's but I really don't know what happened to her from there.
     Chapter four reveals the death of Mrs. Peniston. Lily does not seem overly distraught about the death, which I find concerning since I don't think Lily has anywhere else to live. I can't decide if Lily is angry or content at what Mrs. Peniston left her in the will. Lily only received $10,000, which is shocking to everyone since she was expected to inherit the house as well. Lily seems extremely upset that she did not get the house. I don't know how she will afford to live alone or with whom she will live. It is not clear to me where she is currently residing. On the other hand, she seems overjoyed that she will be able to pay off the $9,000 she owes to Trenor.
     I really don't like that the will of Mrs. Peniston is of more concern to her friends and family than her actual death. No one really talks about their feelings or expresses their sorrow over the matter. It seems they are all much more worried about who will receive what and why.
     This seems very similar to how many feel about losses today. People become so caught up in worrying about the will and hoping they will get everything they want that they often forget about the celebration of life that should be taking place. Like many other things in our society, this truly needs to change.