Anne of Green Gables · Chapter
A New Departure in Flavourings explained
Anne makes a cake for the new minister and his wife, Mrs.
What happens
Anne makes a cake for the new minister and his wife, Mrs. Allan, but accidentally uses anodyne liniment instead of vanilla, leading to a disastrous result. Mrs. Allan comforts Anne, who later reflects on the departure of Mr. Phillips and the arrival of the new minister. The chapter also includes Anne's preparations for hosting the minister and his wife for tea.
Themes in this chapter
Growth and Education
Anne learns from her mistake with the cake and reflects on her past errors, showing personal growth.
Friendship and Community
The community gathers to welcome the new minister, and Anne's friendship with Diana is evident in their conversations.
Imagination and Creativity
Anne's imaginative thoughts about dryads and rainbows contrast with Diana's more practical views.
Characters to notice
- Anne Shirley
Anne is the protagonist who makes a mistake with the cake and later reflects on Mr. Phillips' departure and the new minister's arrival.
- Marilla Cuthbert
Marilla scolds Anne for the cake mistake and later plans to host the minister and his wife for tea.
- Mrs. Allan
Mrs. Allan is the new minister's wife who comforts Anne after the cake incident and shows interest in Anne's flower garden.
- Diana Barry
Diana is Anne's friend who talks with her about the preparations and reassures her about the cake.
- Mr. Phillips
Mr. Phillips is the departing teacher whose farewell speech causes Anne and the other girls to cry.
- Jane Andrews
Jane is a classmate who cries during Mr. Phillips' farewell despite having declared she would not.
Key passages
“Oh, Marilla, isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?”
Anne finds comfort in the idea that each new day offers a fresh start without errors.
This reflects Anne's optimistic outlook despite her frequent mistakes.
“I never make the same mistake twice.”
Anne claims she learns from her errors and does not repeat them.
This shows Anne's self-awareness and determination to improve.
“The time has come for us to part.”
Mr. Phillips' farewell speech begins with this phrase, marking the end of his tenure.
This line is repeated by the girls, emphasizing the emotional impact of the departure.