Interesting chapter on self-reflection and introspection, something new for Lydia. After all, who is Lydia Bennet without Kitty? Lydia has no shadow, which is exactly what Kitty was, someone to give her consequence. Jane and Elizabeth always had each other while Kitty and Lydia had each other. May was "the other Bennet sister," which shocked Lydia when Elizabeth helped her with her music. Jane expressed her feelings to Lydia, "My feelings are no laughing matter," letting Lydia know that how she felt was not an occasion for her braying and loud laughter. Mrs. Bennet's concern that Kitty might come back "too solemn" and that she and Lydia together were "so spirited" while perhaps Kitty would be "more manageable" without Lydia around forced Lydia to see herself in a very unpleasant light. Kitty's missing presence made Lydia invisible.
Great chapter. Lydia's thoughts about her sisters and family are beginning to mature. She is struggling to reconcile Kitty's absence and gain a sense of self.
Excellent chapter filled with great moments of reflection and possible understanding. The line where Lydia imagines Kitty coming down the stairs with her arms filled with ribbons or complaints really captured my attention. Marvelous characterization!
Very interesting listening to Lydia. Realizing her audience is missing. Trying to find her identity without being a reflection. Looking forward to more. Also enjoying the interplay with Mary and Lizzy.
“The rain threading down the windows in steady, silver lines”
“Her steps, though soft, landed with the strange clarity of someone walking alone—truly alone—for the first time.” I understand the purpose of Lydia finding herself, but I would include lapses in judgment. Lydia would forget herself at times, fall back into bad habits. Write a letter complaining relentlessly to Kitty. I do not believe that she would merely turn into a ghost—not at first. She will grow the slowest.
Actually, you might include a chapter of Lydia’s willful rebellion before this chapter. Where are the suitors, her friends? Wouldn’t they seek her out, invite to parties? I can see her raiding Kitty’s ribbons and bonnets. Selfish, rash behavior would precede thoughtful observations and contemplation. She needs a slap in the face before she realizes no one is watching or cares.
Interesting chapter on self-reflection and introspection, something new for Lydia. After all, who is Lydia Bennet without Kitty? Lydia has no shadow, which is exactly what Kitty was, someone to give her consequence. Jane and Elizabeth always had each other while Kitty and Lydia had each other. May was "the other Bennet sister," which shocked Lydia when Elizabeth helped her with her music. Jane expressed her feelings to Lydia, "My feelings are no laughing matter," letting Lydia know that how she felt was not an occasion for her braying and loud laughter. Mrs. Bennet's concern that Kitty might come back "too solemn" and that she and Lydia together were "so spirited" while perhaps Kitty would be "more manageable" without Lydia around forced Lydia to see herself in a very unpleasant light. Kitty's missing presence made Lydia invisible.
Great chapter. Lydia's thoughts about her sisters and family are beginning to mature. She is struggling to reconcile Kitty's absence and gain a sense of self.
Excellent chapter filled with great moments of reflection and possible understanding. The line where Lydia imagines Kitty coming down the stairs with her arms filled with ribbons or complaints really captured my attention. Marvelous characterization!
Very interesting listening to Lydia. Realizing her audience is missing. Trying to find her identity without being a reflection. Looking forward to more. Also enjoying the interplay with Mary and Lizzy.
The imagery is lovely.
“The rain threading down the windows in steady, silver lines”
“Her steps, though soft, landed with the strange clarity of someone walking alone—truly alone—for the first time.” I understand the purpose of Lydia finding herself, but I would include lapses in judgment. Lydia would forget herself at times, fall back into bad habits. Write a letter complaining relentlessly to Kitty. I do not believe that she would merely turn into a ghost—not at first. She will grow the slowest.
Actually, you might include a chapter of Lydia’s willful rebellion before this chapter. Where are the suitors, her friends? Wouldn’t they seek her out, invite to parties? I can see her raiding Kitty’s ribbons and bonnets. Selfish, rash behavior would precede thoughtful observations and contemplation. She needs a slap in the face before she realizes no one is watching or cares.