Emily of New Moon · Chapter
On the Bay Shore explained
Emily wanders far along the bay shore and nearly falls to her death when the mossy bank gives way, leaving her clinging to a narrow ledge.
What happens
Emily wanders far along the bay shore and nearly falls to her death when the mossy bank gives way, leaving her clinging to a narrow ledge. She prays desperately and is rescued by Dean Priest, who happens upon her. Afterward, they talk on the shore, discussing poetry, writing, and family, and Dean claims her life as his own for saving it. Emily feels a strange sense of bondage but also a growing friendship.
Themes in this chapter
Imagination and Creativity
Emily recites her poem and discusses her ambitions to be a poetess or novelist; Dean encourages her writing but warns of its burdens.
Secrecy and Truth
Emily prays that the truth about Ilse's mother will be discovered, hinting at hidden family secrets.
Nature and Beauty
The chapter is rich with descriptions of the bay shore, the farewell-summer flower, and the evening light, emphasizing nature's beauty and danger.
Characters to notice
- Emily Byrd Starr
Nearly falls over a cliff while picking farewell-summer; prays for rescue; later recites her poem to Dean and feels a mix of gratitude and rebellion.
- Dean Priest
Rescues Emily from the cliff; engages in a long conversation about poetry, writing, and family; claims her life as his own, but also shows kindness and humor.
- Great-Aunt Nancy Priest
Mentioned as Emily's host at Wyther Grange; Dean refers to her with irony, noting her dislike of him.
- Caroline Priest
Mentioned as the one Aunt Nancy would send to look for Emily; Emily worries Caroline won't find her.
- Ilse Burnley
Emily thinks of Ilse's mother's mysterious disappearance while in danger, and prays someone will discover the truth about her.
Key passages
“I wonder how much longer I have to live.”
Emily ponders how much time she has left to live.
Opens the chapter with Emily's dramatic reflection as she explores the shore.
“I must be very brave and patient, she thought. My only chance is to lie still.”
Emily resolves to remain calm and motionless, believing stillness is her only hope.
Shows Emily's self-control and resourcefulness in a life-threatening situation.
“Your life belongs to me henceforth. Since I saved it it's mine. Never forget that.”
Dean claims ownership of Emily's life because he rescued her.
Introduces a theme of emotional bondage and foreshadows Dean's possessive nature.
“I think I shall be either a great poetess or a distinguished novelist, said Emily reflectively.”
Emily calmly states her ambition to become a famous poet or novelist.
Highlights Emily's confidence in her literary aspirations.