Growth of the Soil · Chapter
VII explained
The chapter follows Isak and Inger as they continue their work on the farm, dealing with the aftermath of Inger's infanticide.
What happens
The chapter follows Isak and Inger as they continue their work on the farm, dealing with the aftermath of Inger's infanticide. Inger is haunted by her act and the memory of the child, while Isak tries to move forward practically. The barn is completed, crops are harvested, and Inger eventually faces legal consequences, being sentenced to eight years in prison. Isak considers seeking help from Geissler.
Themes in this chapter
Guilt and Redemption
Inger's guilt over killing her child and her attempts at redemption through work and hymns are central to the chapter.
Family and Generational Change
The family unit is strained by Inger's crime and imprisonment, affecting the children and the future of Sellanraa.
Community and Isolation
Inger's isolation is deepened by her secret and the eventual legal consequences, while the community's gossip (via Oline and Lapps) leads to her downfall.
Characters to notice
- Isak
Isak works tirelessly on the farm, completes the barn, and tries to support Inger after her crime. He considers seeking Geissler's help.
- Inger
Inger is consumed by guilt over killing her newborn, sings hymns mournfully, and is eventually sentenced to eight years in prison.
- Eleseus
Eleseus is taught prayers by Inger and receives gifts from Fru Geissler.
- Sivert
Sivert receives gifts from Fru Geissler along with Eleseus.
- Geissler
Geissler is remembered fondly; Isak plans to seek him out in Sweden for help.
- Oline
Oline is suspected by Inger of having sent the hare that supposedly caused the harelip, and is feared to have spread the secret.
Key passages
“Good things mostly leave no trace, but something always comes of evil.”
Positive events are quickly forgotten, but negative actions have lasting consequences.
Reflects the lingering impact of Inger's crime on the household.
“She was all the same as myself. Her mouth.”
Inger explains she killed the child because it had a harelip like her own.
Reveals Inger's motive rooted in her own suffering and shame.
“Isak took the matter sensibly—what else was there to do?”
Isak accepted the situation pragmatically, seeing no alternative.
Highlights Isak's stoic and practical nature in the face of tragedy.