The author’s physical description of Louise again reflects the inner restraint that she had endured throughout her life. Louise is a woman who was not able to express her needs, longings or individuality; her appearance also reveals her mundane past. Her face is described as “young and calm,” this is because she never experienced the independence and maturity needed to give it character. Chopin described Louise as having a face “whose lines bespoke repression” -- she is portrayed as having a face without depth or spirit, it also provides a graphic representation of Louise’s soul. As Louise’s contemplates the possibilities of a new life, her expressions and outward appearance mimic her inner transformation. Chopin reveals that the look upon
