The Awakening: Response 3 of 4

        Edna Pontellier has definitely undergone an amazing transformation; however, all of this surprises me. I notice that few people notice Edna's relations with Robert Lebrun, but do not correct the actions due to the fact that Edna is married! I am greatly confused in the ways of these characters when it comes to this issue. What is interesting, though, is how Edna and Robert spend more and more time together with that something growing inside of them drawing an attraction. This urges me to read because such an attraction reminds me of my generation, or rather, the point in my life (as well as my peers) where we uncover the youthful innocence in attraction and relationships. Once again, this is a step in Edna's awakening when it comes to self-discovery and confidence. Basically, it's like being single but setting your eyes on someone who seems to spark this rush in you; someone who gets you, or who you can spend hours to days of enjoyment with. This is Robert.
         Oh, my goodness! Now I have to find out that Robert is leaving to Mexico, after he's spent a day with Mrs. Pontellier! He hadn't even told her while he was with her. What a shame. This is a total, crushing moment. This point left me speechless. Being a female, I really don't appreciate when someone seems to enjoy being with you as much as you enjoy being with them, and then they end up changing the whole idea on their part. It makes you question, "Don't you...remember what we've just been through?" It doesn't matter if it's your best friend, boyfriend, or classmate. It can really be anyone, and it hurts. I feel so much pity because Mrs. Pontellier was finding herself again after taking a few moments to break out of her possessive marital status. She was sensing happiness, pleasure, and relief. She was refreshed, only to find out that Robert is leaving. It all seemed to be a dream. And, when he says "goodbye", he said it as if she were just some acquaintance he had a nice chat with. Since then, thoughts of him had invaded her mind.
          In addition to what maddens me, Mr. Pontellier is just so much of a jerk because he holds Mrs. Pontellier to their societal expectation that she is driving away from. This takes me back to the time I watched and read The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. Allie dropped the superficial societal expectations of her parents because she was madly in love with Noah Calhoun, and he is the man who made her happy! I feel as if Mrs. Pontellier has yet to uncover this meaning of love in her awakening for this emotion is strong- this whole idea of finding a supporting and passionate love, other than her current possessive and passionate love with Leonce Pontellier. This seems to be a common conflict in every woman's life; to fight off the temptation and realize what's out there to keep her true to herself, happy, supported, and deeply in a love that she cannot let go of in terms of heart, not mind.