Gilman and Chopin

As we have moved on to study literature of the early 20^th century where we see more short stories rather than long, we are almost forced to change our reading habits and take a closer look at the text. I really did not realize the need to read more carefully until we discussed The Yellow Wallpaper in class on Tuesday.

When we talked about the idea that the main character may possibly be dead throughout the whole story, I had not noticed this and realized the need to more carefully read and interpret this style of writing. On the very first page of the text we see a number of hints to the fact that she might be dead through out the story. For example, she says “John is a physician, and perhaps – (I would not say it to a living soul, of course, but this is dead paper and a great relief to my mind) – perhaps that is one reason I do not get well faster.” I failed to recognize that the author might be hinting at the fact that she has passed before the story has even begun.

As we talked about a deeper meaning of The Yellow Wallpaper, we discussed how Gilman is actually writing a “double commentary” on the problems involved in marriage and medical issues. I would not have recognized this without it being pointed out to me or taking a deeper look on the text.

The same is true for the text, Desiree’s Baby. Because the text is so short we must carefully read each and every word and take a deeper meaning into mind. We have to think outside of the box. If I were to skim the text, I would never think to say that it is a story of irony. Because this story is so short and I was aware of the fact that these short stories are full of hidden meaning, it was easier for me to think outside the box and try and figure out what the author is really trying to tell us as readers. Chopin has changed the idea that children are the future to using babies as bad plot devices.