Commentary On Wharton's Ethan Frome

After many failed attempts at building a strong, structured shelter and Jack’s failure at getting any meat, Simon, who is the most in tune with nature, stumbled upon a tranquil setting. When he reached the safe haven, it is located far away from the shore; this revealed that all his problems existed at an entirely different place. His separation from the other kids represented that he was leaving his problems behind him. As Simon lied down in the woven mat in the center, he could barely hear the very nature of the island isolating himself to only the calming surroundings. The place of refuge allowed him to forget everything by offering a calming place for him escape from reality. Similarly, Ethan’s day alone with Mattie is the only time of true happiness in his life. …show more content…
When Mattie Silver, Zeena’s cousin, comes over to help do housework at the Fromes, Ethan falls in love with her because of the way she listens and understands him. Zeena’s day away from Ethan gives him a chance to be alone with the person who makes him happy. The way the author describes Ethan’s perspective on Mattie is filled with positive connotations making him feel full of life. Inside the house, there seems to be a perfect couple in a cozy setting and Zeena, representing his troubles, have moved to another