A Northern Light Essay Example

after another, with considerable consequences not only for herself but also for others. Prior to Grace Brown's tragic demise, Mattie is entrusted with burning letters that later prove to hold critical information surrounding the murder. Grace desires the destruction of these letters as she is pregnant and wishes to keep her condition a secret.

Despite keeping the letters in case she changes her mind, Mattie discovers Grace's pregnancy with Chester Gillette's child when her body is found in the lake. Initially, Mattie keeps the letters to herself to avoid drawing attention to her busy life. However, towards the end of the book, she decides to share the letters so that people can learn about Grace's story. If nobody reads the letters, nobody will know what happened. Mattie places Grace's letters on Chester's desk and leaves a note on Glenmore stationery to explain how she obtained them. Mattie then departs for New York City, fully aware that her decisions may not be well-received by her family members, particularly her pa.

Pa is protecting the family while Mattie has her own ambitions. However, she is unable to pursue them due to Pa's influence. He thinks it's best for Mattie to stay and assist with the farm at all times. Pa disapproves of her employment at the Glenmore Hotel as he fears she may depart like her brother Lawton. Although it may appear strict to restrict Mattie's desires, Pa has already suffered the loss of Lawton and maintaining the farm is already challenging enough. Thus, he relies on Mattie to ensure its continuity.

Pa initially tells Mattie that he knew he would say no and wonders why she even

asked (Donnelly 23). Mattie reflects on this after her father's response. While it could be argued that Pa is a less than ideal father, ultimately his choices are made with the family's best interests in mind. Weaver encourages Mattie to pursue her passion for writing by suggesting she attend college and build a future for herself. Weaver also submits Mattie's writing to their former teacher, Miss Parish, but unfortunately, she does not approve of them.

According to Miss Parish, she found my stories morbid and dispiriting. She advised me to write about happy things instead. However, Miss Wilcox disagrees and believes my writing is good. She appreciates my talent and that's why she submitted it to Barnard, as she thinks I have a gift.

The teacher, Miss Wilcox, has a unique opinion because she is a renowned poet who understands and appreciates Mattie's writing style. She recognizes Mattie's tendency to write about less-than-happy endings and encourages her in this regard. Miss Wilcox's own talent for writing enables her to understand and appreciate Mattie's work. In contrast, Mattie's father, Pa, fails to see her writing abilities due to his preoccupation with the farm. He does not support her pursuit of writing or college education because he views her as an essential helper on the farm. This perspective is revealed when Pa states, "She don't need to make something more."

While conversing with Miss Wilcox, Donnelly (166) argues that Mattie is content with her current state. However, if she were to depart, it would not only distress her father but also her caring sisters - Abby, Lou, and Beth - who rely on her for support. Thus, attending

college would necessitate Mattie to sacrifice her bonds with both her father and sisters, potentially abandoning her family. Even though her departure would cause pain to others, Mattie ultimately opts to make the difficult choice to leave. Consequently, she rejects the proposal from Royal and returns his ring.

"I look around myself wildly, my heart bursting with grief and fear and joy. I am leaving, I will take this place and its stories with me wherever I go." (Donnelly 380) Mattie's final thought encompasses her mixed emotions as she embarks on a journey toward a new life and future. Her departure signifies her newfound voice and her determination to pursue her passion for writing, regardless of others' understanding or approval. Ultimately, Mattie prioritizes her own well-being and happiness in making this decision.