# The Vow of Emily explained — Emily of New Moon

> Chapter companion for Emily of New Moon by L. M. Montgomery.

## What happens

Emily returns to New Moon and is given her mother's old room, the 'lookout,' which she immediately loves and feels a deep connection to. She writes to her father and mother, sharing her joy and news of a new teacher, Mr. Carpenter. The chapter also explores her deepening friendship with Dean Priest, who understands her imaginative nature and shares stories of history and beauty.

## Themes in this chapter

### Imagination and Creativity

Emily and Dean Priest share a deep appreciation for imagination, poetry, and storytelling, finding joy in 'fairyland' and creative expression.

### Family and Belonging

Emily feels a strong sense of belonging in her mother's room at New Moon, connecting with her mother's memory and her own place in the family.

### Secrecy and Truth

Emily and Teddy have a secret adventure, and Emily reflects on her mother's secret past of running away, which is both a family shame and the reason for her own existence.

## Character check-ins

### Emily Byrd Starr

Emily returns to New Moon, is given her mother's room, and feels a profound sense of belonging and connection to her mother. She also continues her friendship with Dean Priest, finding in him a kindred spirit.

### Dean Priest

Dean becomes a close companion to Emily, sharing stories and understanding her imaginative nature. He is a source of intellectual and emotional connection for her.

### Aunt Elizabeth Murray

Aunt Elizabeth gives Emily her mother's room and sternly warns her about her mother's past disobedience. She disapproves of Emily's emotional expressions.

### Aunt Laura Murray

Aunt Laura shows a softer side when mentioning Emily's mother, and advises Emily to quietly continue wearing her bang despite Aunt Elizabeth's disapproval.

### Ilse Burnley

Ilse is mentioned as the source of news about the new teacher, Mr. Carpenter, and her father's reaction to Miss Brownell's marriage.

### Teddy Kent

Teddy is mentioned as having a secret adventure with Emily, which they plan to keep to themselves.

## Key lines

> To love is easy and therefore common⁠—but to understand ⁠—how rare it is!

Loving someone is simple and ordinary, but truly understanding them is a rare and precious gift.

_Reflects the deep intellectual and emotional connection between Emily and Dean Priest._

> You make me believe in fairies, whether I will or no, and that means youth. As long as you believe in fairies you can’t grow old.

Your presence makes me feel young and full of wonder, even against my will, because believing in magic keeps one youthful.

_Dean Priest expresses how Emily's imagination rejuvenates him._

> I belong here.

This is my true home; I feel a deep sense of connection and belonging to this place.

_Emily's emotional response to her new room at New Moon, signifying her acceptance and love for her family home._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/emily_of_new_moon_se/chapters/xxvii-the-vow-of-emily
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/emily_of_new_moon_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/emily_of_new_moon_se/chapters