Backwater · Chapter
II explained
Miriam reflects on her feelings for Ted and anticipates a dance where she will see him.
What happens
Miriam reflects on her feelings for Ted and anticipates a dance where she will see him. She experiences a moment of intense happiness during a musical evening at home, with Margaret Wedderburn playing the violin. The chapter also includes preparations for a dance, interactions with her sisters Harriett and Eve, and the arrival of Bennett Brodie.
Themes in this chapter
Inner Life and Consciousness
Miriam's intense inner reflections on love, anticipation, and self-awareness dominate the chapter.
Gender Roles and Marriage
Miriam's thoughts about Ted and the dance highlight societal expectations around courtship and marriage.
Nature and Escape
The garden and natural imagery provide a backdrop for Miriam's emotional escape and happiness.
Characters to notice
- Miriam Henderson
Reflects on her feelings for Ted, experiences happiness during music, and prepares for a dance.
- Harriett
Shares a bedroom with Miriam and helps prepare for the dance.
- Eve
Interacts with Miriam about the dance and Ted.
- Margaret Wedderburn
Plays violin during the musical evening, described as serene and beautiful.
- Bennett Brodie
Arrives early to the dance and offers to take over piano playing.
- Ted
The object of Miriam's romantic thoughts; she anticipates seeing him at the dance.
Key passages
“She would be ready this time and say his name and move instead of being turned to stone.”
Miriam resolves to respond to Ted's attention instead of freezing up.
Miriam's determination to overcome her shyness with Ted.
“She had turned swiftly from the sudden knowledge coming like a blow on her heart, that one day he would kiss her.”
Miriam is struck by the realization that Ted will eventually kiss her.
A moment of romantic epiphany for Miriam.
“She found herself drawing easy breaths and relaxing completely against the support of the hard friendly sofa.”
Miriam feels at ease and content while listening to music.
Music provides Miriam with a sense of peace and happiness.
“I wish I'd got a dress like Nan's.”
Miriam expresses envy over Nan's dress.
Miriam's concern with appearance before the dance.