National Avenue · Chapter
XIX explained
Harlan and Martha discuss Dan's Ornaby Addition project, with Harlan skeptical and Martha defending Dan's success.
What happens
Harlan and Martha discuss Dan's Ornaby Addition project, with Harlan skeptical and Martha defending Dan's success. Martha has returned from an extended stay in Italy, leaving her father Mr. Shelby alone. Lena expresses bitterness over her unfulfilled promise of a European trip, contrasting with Martha's freedom.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Failure
Harlan and Martha debate Dan's success with Ornaby Addition, highlighting differing views on ambition and perceived failure.
Home and Belonging
Martha's return from Italy and her father's contentment alone contrast with Lena's feeling of being trapped in her home.
Marriage and Alienation
Lena's bitter complaints to Dan reveal deep alienation in their marriage over unfulfilled promises and differing desires.
Characters to notice
- Harlan Oliphant
Discusses Dan's project with Martha, admits he still cares for her but feels she is 'stony' and unchanged.
- Martha Shelby
Recently returned from Italy, defends Dan's success against Harlan's criticism, reflects on her travels and her father's independence.
- Dan Oliphant
Discussed indirectly; Martha defends his Ornaby Addition project as a success, while Harlan claims it is financially precarious.
- Lena McMillan
Expresses resentment over not being taken to Europe, contrasts her situation with Martha's travels, and argues with Dan.
- Mr. Shelby
Martha's father, left alone during her travels; he resists her attempts to arrange a housekeeper and enjoys his independence.
Key passages
“If you wanted to come, why didn't you? Because I'd only have done it to see you, and I suppose I have a remnant of pride.”
Harlan admits he wanted to visit Martha in Italy but refrained out of pride, knowing his feelings were unreciprocated.
Reveals Harlan's lingering romantic interest and emotional restraint.
“The truth is, you've had the habit of undervaluing Dan so long that you can't get over it.”
Martha accuses Harlan of persistently underestimating Dan's abilities and success.
Highlights the ongoing conflict between Harlan's skepticism and Martha's faith in Dan.
“She can go and take what I want, but it can't be any good to her; she hasn't culture enough to see it or to feel it or to hear it.”
Lena bitterly claims that Martha, who traveled to Europe, lacks the cultural refinement to appreciate it, unlike herself.
Shows Lena's jealousy and sense of entitlement to experiences she feels denied.