Blog #6

The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton
Analysis over chapters 6


Money and secrets. That appears to be the theme of this conspicuous chapter. Lily's new found stock investments brings her quick success, which ultimately boost her confidence and fills her with superiority. Her recent "friendship" made with Mr.Trenor appears to be beneficial for now, but I am positive it will take a turn for the worst. Lily may feel all powerful and mighty now, but it's simply impossible for Lily to keep this secret relationship with Mr.Trenor without things getting messy. Although she is not lying to Mrs.Trenor, nor sneaking around behind her back, it is clear that Mrs.Trenor is completely unaware of her husbands evident attraction to Ms.Bart. How can Lily can be so selfish? Is she truly willing to risk her friendship with Mrs.Trenor all for the prize of money? Also, Mr.Trenor is accepting nice smiles and brisk hand holding for now, but eventually he is going to want more. He nonchalantly adds in a conversation with Lily, "Why can't you come back to Bellomont this evening? We're all alone..."(Wharton,75). He's insinuating that he is not just helping her money problems, he mean business, and not the appropriate kind. 
Secret are not just created in this chapter, but also unravel. When Lily and Selden are found in a moment of quite conversation, they are interrupted by the presence of Mr.Rosedale. Lily makes it quite clear that she is not fond of his presence, and in retaliation he makes a remark about her "dress keeper"at the Benedick. Selden seems to pick on this quite quickly and Lily makes her means to escape before she sees his response. At a final dramatic end to the chapter, the engagement of Mr.Gryce and Evie Van Osburgh is brought to Lily's attention. Now Lily is right back to where she started on her man hunt and I can't help but feel is suites her right. I would not be satisfied to see her manipulative ways bring her "happiness".