Edith Wharton...you confused me.

Edith Wharton, I commend you for your story that contains a multitude of ironic symbols and a story that makes me think and wonder. I have a question for you: are Ellen and Archer not marrying for the happiness of May? More so, why are they so concerned for the May's happiness?

Here is my own answer:

First of all, we must attempt to understand Ellen and Archers feelings for each other. Even though it has been more than a year since May and Archer have been married, Newland still has feelings for Ellen. When he goes to goes to Boston, he describes May in such a dull way. “She had a grey silk sunshade over her head” (194). Somehow the color grey extrapolates on Ellen’s unhappiness. Right now, we are confused on the roots of her unhappiness. Is it because she still didn't get a divorce and refused to take the money back? or is it because she is away from Newland. Either way, the separate, respected marriages that Ellen and Archer are in, hinder their dismissal of unhappiness. Newland and Ellen have thus far, been quiet around each other, making it seem almost difficult to converse due to their inability to outwardly love each, but chapter twenty four, finally has them talking- but mostly Ellen. Ellen seems almost like an angel or even a sacrificer. She sacrificed her life for May. Even though she is unhappy, she thanks Archer for her realization of truth (the difference between rude and delicate). In essence, Archer has taught her about society and and that “under the dullness there are things so fine and sensitive and delicate that even those I most cared for in my other life look cheap in comparison” (203). Loving her, is nonetheless true when not joined and love is heightened when distance is as well. The difficulties of not being together heighten their love for each other, but they suffer and sacrifice for the happiness of an innocent individual, May. Perhaps, they want to save May from losing her innocence. If this is not the case, why are Ellen and Archer not confessing their love for each other? Why are they so keen on protecting May from unhappiness? Is loss of innocence like a disease? In a way, I think it is. May so far, has gotten no commentary from society, besides that of her wedding. No negative remarks or hatred from her environment and this may be because she hasn't done anything..nothing scandalous at least. Unlike both Archer and Ellen who have had multiple affairs and drama in their lives, May lacks any of this. Even though this makes her life seem dumb, she is a women untouched, non-flawed, and very happy. I feel like Ellen and Archer both see this perfection in May, and want her to remain happy for the rest of her life, hence they do what ever it takes for her to feel protected and comfortable, even if this means sacrificing their love. Technically this sacrifice is not completely seen by the characters, it's a hidden gesture, coming from within. Somewhere in the back of their heads, they see that their lives are miserable, and feel sorry for them selves. Perhaps, even more importantly, they regret their past, and hence want to save May from the same mistakes too.