Ethan Frome

What a nice, simple little story. I would not be quick to say that it is a romantic novel. It's a love story, yes, but it's one that causes you to observe and read the literal world that surround it. In other words, it is filled with symbolism, third-person thoughts, and scenery that puts the mood in the plot. Ethan Frome is sad, but it is something that will challenge those who find themselves in similar situations. Being set in 19th century New England might lower expectations for most modern audiences. However, I view the novel as very contemporary with something very important that's just as poignant as any love story.

Ethan Frome is a lonely man who lives in a gray, dull world on the outskirts of the nearest town of Starksfield. A new resident turns up in town and soon becomes in contact with Ethan Frome. They do not communicate well, until one day, a blizzard snows them in at Ethan's house. There, the man learns the sad backstory of Ethan's life.

It revolves around Ethan and his wife, Zeena, who he tries to take care of, for she has "every sickness in the world". Zeena calls her cousin, Mattie Silver, to come help in the household. As time progresses, Ethan begins to fall in love with Mattie, as Zeena seems to come off more and more as a witch. The climax is inevitable for a tragic love story. It's the way the story unfolds and how Ethan handles himself that is stunning.

Ethan is man who implodes. He never discusses his true feelings. He had only married Zeena because he was lonely after his mother died. He wants more than anything to reveal his true love for Mattie, but it is impossible for him. Even when Zeena leaves for a night, Ethan's story becomes even sadder.

The use of color is brilliant. Red, in particular, symbolizes liveliness and youth. Gray also represents death and dullness. I won't say how the author uses them, but look for it when you read.

By the end of the novel, the man learns Ethan's whole simple, but sad, story. I obviously won't reveal it, but it is beautiful. You can read the novel in no time. The love story is not mushy or corny. It has purpose and doesn't run on the same I-love-you-but-I-can't-express-it note the whole time. Read it and be encouraged to just do what you want to do instead of what the pressures of life want you to do.