("Eveline", Joyce)
"It was hard work- a hard life- but now that she was about to leave it she didn't find it a wholly undesirable life"
The initial synopsis of this story is a feeling of sorrow and sympathy towards Eveline. With a horrible past and unjust father, the lost chance to escape seems to be sorrowful and a completely unhappy ending. However, other aspects of the tale imply that Eveline wasn't ready to change, even though her situation was horrible. First and foremost the name Eveline means "uncertain, possibly desired" (source http://babynamesworld.parentsconnect.com) which reflects her overall uncertain nature. The quoted line above describes her constant battle over the issue of leaving: she desires to "explore the world with Frank" yet she holds a sense of pride for the household and children she cares for. This chance to run away with Frank simply isn't the best choice; it forces her to cut off her past completely and no matter how rough it is, it's just not possible. It's like going from a nightmare into a amazing dream, although the dream is breathtaking and wonderful, after time one would rather be awake in the real world rather than dreaming at all. The final scene doesn't mean that Eveline will be trapped forever; rather, she is simply not ready to move above her past. The ship or another ship will leave the harbor when she is ready.
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The name comment is very good.
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