# XXXI: Emily’s Great Moment explained — Emily of New Moon

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

## What happens

Emily slowly recovers from her illness, finding solace in walks with Dean Priest. When Mr. Carpenter finally reviews her writing, he offers a harsh but ultimately encouraging critique, affirming her talent and urging her to climb. Overjoyed, Emily begins a diary to record her thoughts.

## Themes in this chapter

### Imagination and Creativity

Emily's writing is validated by Mr. Carpenter, and she begins a diary to capture her creative spirit.

### Friendship and Loyalty

Dean Priest's companionship aids Emily's recovery, and her friends await her for a twilight romp.

## Character check-ins

### Emily Byrd Starr

Recovering from illness, receives Mr. Carpenter's critique, and starts a diary.

### Dean Priest

Keeps Emily company during her convalescence with walks and stories.

### Mr. Carpenter

Reviews Emily's writing and gives a blunt but encouraging verdict.

### Aunt Elizabeth Murray

Observes Emily's recovery and is polite to Dean Priest despite her dislike of the Priests.

### Ilse Burnley

Recovering from measles, tries to break her habit of calling names.

### Teddy Kent

Recovering from measles, Emily visits him on his first day of convalescence.

## Key lines

> One cannot go down to the depths of hidden things and escape the penalty.

Exploring deep emotional or hidden truths inevitably comes with a cost.

_Reflects Emily's lingering spiritual languor after her illness._

> She’s left the childhood of her soul behind, though she is still a child in body.

Emily has matured emotionally and spiritually, even if she remains physically young.

_Mr. Carpenter's observation of Emily's growth._

> Wind—and flame—and sea!

Emily possesses a wild, passionate, and elemental creative force.

_Mr. Carpenter's muttered recognition of her innate talent._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/emily_of_new_moon_se/chapters/xxxi-emily-s-great-moment
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/emily_of_new_moon_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/emily_of_new_moon_se/chapters