Villette

[Wendy]

Charlotte purposefully left it vague it seems, and even then she had people petitioning her to clarify. She laughingly admitted whatever she told them pretty much left the matter as it was. Sometimes, when I read it, I think she has irrefutably said that Paul was lost. Other times, I catch some obscure reference which seems to indicate a far more intimate, and long, acquaintance than they had opportunity for--excepting, of course, their correspondence while he was in the West Indies. She gives us the choice, to choose 'sunny imagination' but it seems almost patronizing--delude yourself, if you can't take it. I have finally come to the conclusion that it was a story of deep, enduring love--but love is not the crux of the story. As Lucy climbed to the dome of St. Paul's and was able to see the city spread out before her, and was able to descend and 'mix with life', Paul's love and faith in her gave her the courage to live a full life and faith in herself. And THAT is the true triumph of Villette!

[Jennifer]

I have just finished reading Villette which I have not put down in the past few days and I get to the end and, well I'm stumped. I don't know if I'm satisified with the cryptic ending or overjoyed that I wasn't given too much detail. How do you take her final two paragraphs? Discuss...

[Natgirl]

I don't think its that cryptic. Miss Snowe was just, once again, showing her kindness for her dear reader by quitting her pen. (Although I do find it odd she plainly spoke in favor of TRUTH, and here at the end she hides it, monster that she is--jk.)
But for a major hint as to what probably happened, look to the Finis chapter, 3rd paragraph down. "...do you scout the paradox?..." (Bronte 461) But I still like to think what I will, not being of morbid character.

[shortysweetp]

i was a little upset i wanted them to live happily ever after and well she left it where they can or if someone wanted it to be tragic then it could be