Anne of the Island · Chapter
Love Takes Up the Glass of Time explained
Gilbert invites Anne for a walk to Hester Gray's garden, where he confesses his enduring love and proposes again.
What happens
Gilbert invites Anne for a walk to Hester Gray's garden, where he confesses his enduring love and proposes again. Anne accepts, and they pledge to wait for each other while he completes his medical studies. The chapter resolves their long-standing romantic tension.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
The chapter centers on Gilbert's proposal and Anne's acceptance, resolving their romantic arc and affirming their commitment to marry after his studies.
Ambition and Career
Anne reflects on her teaching and writing ambitions as a potential substitute for love, and Gilbert's medical studies are a key part of their future plans.
Self-Discovery
Anne realizes her true feelings for Gilbert and reconciles her earlier doubts, leading to a deeper understanding of her own heart.
Characters to notice
- Anne Shirley
Anne is preparing for a wedding and conflicted about her feelings for Gilbert, ultimately accepting his proposal in Hester Gray's garden.
- Gilbert Blythe
Gilbert persists in his dream of a life with Anne, proposes again, and reveals he never loved Christine Stuart.
- Philippa Gordon
Phil's letter to Gilbert, revealing there was nothing between Anne and Roy, spurred his recovery and decision to propose.
- Jane Andrews
Jane's wedding is mentioned as one of three weddings that summer, with Anne attending.
- Roy Gardner
Roy is referenced as the man Anne was rumored to be engaged to, but Phil's letter clarified there was nothing between them.
Key passages
“I have a dream... I dream of a home with a hearth-fire in it, a cat and dog, the footsteps of friends—and you!”
Gilbert tells Anne his dream of a shared life with her, including a home, pets, and friends.
This is Gilbert's proposal, expressing his vision of their future together.
“I can never forget the night I thought you were dying, Gilbert. Oh, I knew—I knew then—and I thought it was too late.”
Anne recalls the terror of Gilbert's illness and realizing her love for him, fearing she had missed her chance.
Anne's confession reveals the depth of her feelings and the pivotal moment of clarity during Gilbert's fever.