Question

The description in this story has symbolic touches. What do you think the ‘window’, the ‘gathering dusk’, the ‘dusty cretonne and its odor’ symbolize?

Answer 1

James Joyce had used a lot of visual imagery in her story, Eveline. Through the imagery of the window, the writer symbolizes the opportunity to elope that she has got just like a ray of sun falls in from the window and the weight of memories and responsibility flashing through her. Like with the opening of the window, a fresh breeze comes in, the window symbolizes opportunities and happiness.

Similarly, ‘gathering dusk’ and ‘dusty cretonne and odor’ symbolize dullness and lifelessness. It portrays the monotony and tiresomeness of life. With the dark color of the room, the writer has shown the burden of memories and the dullness of Eveline’s life.

Thus, the writer has drawn a contrast between opportunity and burdening memories.