“The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin is a short story about a woman, Mrs. Mallard, and her reaction to the news of her husband’s alleged death. Mrs. Mallard has a weak heart and, therefore, is sensitive to sudden news. Upon hearing the news and using context, the reader may infer that in regards to Ms. Mallard’s condition, her heart would play a role in the following story. Upon newfound independence from her husband, Mrs. Mallard’s reaction is as follows, “She said it over and over under her breath: "free, free, free!" ... Her pulses beat fast, and the coursing blood warmed and relaxed every inch of her body” (Chopin). Her pulses beating fast showcase the suspense building, the relaxation represents the final rest humans experience in life.
