Introduction: The Yellow Wallpaper and What We Talk: Marriages
Both “The Yellow Wallpaper” and “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” feature four married couples, each offering a unique perspective on the complexities of married life. Despite the common theme of marriage, the narratives sharply diverge in their portrayal of the institution. In the case of “The Yellow Wallpaper,” marriage takes on a somewhat oppressive and stifling nature as the anonymous female narrator finds herself confined to a health resort. This confinement is ostensibly for her mental well-being, as prescribed by her husband, John, whom she describes as “practical in the extreme” (Gilman 392). This introduction sets the stage for an exploration of the contrasting dynamics of marriages in these two literary works, delving into themes of confinement, emotional intricacies, and societal expectations.
Patriarchy in The Yellow Wallpaper and What We Talk
In “The Yellow Wallpaper,” the narrative sheds light on the pervasive dominance of patriarchy, creating an environment where feminism appears to have no place. The anonymous narrator grapples with a profound awareness of her mental ailment, yet finds herself devoid of agency over her own life. The patriarchal structure dictates that she remains confined in the health resort until she recovers, subjected to the decisions made by her husband, John, who, in her words, embodies an extreme practicality (Gilman 392). This portrayal underscores the oppressive nature of marriage within the story, symbolizing a broader commentary on the limitations imposed on women within a patriarchal society. The protagonist’s lack of control over her circumstances serves as a poignant illustration of the systemic constraints placed on women’s autonomy, offering a stark contrast to the dynamics explored in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.”
In contrast, the exploration of marriages in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” introduces a different dimension. The second marriage of Terri and Mel reveals a power dynamic where Terri, the wife, asserts her opinions even before her husband, Mel. Terri’s autonomy is evident as she openly shares insights about her first marriage to Ed, expressing that Ed used to love her despite his sadistic tendencies (Craver 133). This narrative dynamic challenges traditional gender roles and presents a marriage where the woman holds significant agency. The contrasting portrayals of marital dynamics in these stories serve as a lens through which the complexities of relationships, power dynamics, and societal expectations are explored, inviting readers to critically examine the varied facets of married life.
Love in The Yellow Wallpaper and What We Talk: Marriages
In “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love,” the exploration of marriages extends to the dynamics between Laura and Nick, a couple married for only a year and a half. Unlike the oppressive marriage portrayed in “The Yellow Wallpaper,” Laura and Nick’s relationship is characterized by a mutual and equal love for each other. Their partnership stands in stark contrast to the previously discussed narrative, offering a contemporary perspective on marriage that challenges traditional gender norms. This portrayal suggests that, over time, societal views on marriage have evolved, allowing for more egalitarian relationships where love is shared on equal footing.
Mel’s narration of the elderly couple further complicates the understanding of marriage in the context of the stories. He recounts their enduring love, emphasizing that even in old age, when they could no longer see each other, their affection persisted (Craver 137). This narrative thread introduces the idea that love can transcend physical limitations, challenging the conventional expectations associated with marital relationships. By juxtaposing different couples and their varied experiences, the narrative in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” invites readers to reflect on the evolving nature of marriages, highlighting the changing societal norms surrounding love and partnership over time.
Conclusion: The Yellow Wallpaper and What We Talk: Marriages
Indeed, the marriages of Mel and Terri, Laura and Nick, and the elderly couple in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” exemplify diverse concepts, each shedding light on distinct facets of human relationships. Mel and Terri’s marriage seems to reflect a notion of convenience, as they navigate through the complexities of their union. Terri’s assertiveness in expressing her views, even on her previous marriage, suggests a dynamic where both partners negotiate and assert their individual perspectives within the marriage, perhaps driven by a pragmatic approach to their relationship.
Conversely, the relationship between Laura and Nick is characterized by love, presenting a more traditional and emotionally connected concept of marriage. Their mutual affection and equal footing in their partnership paint a picture of a modern relationship built on shared emotions and companionship. This portrayal stands in contrast to the oppressive and stifling marriage depicted in “The Yellow Wallpaper,” emphasizing the evolving dynamics of marital relationships over time.
The story of the old couple adds another layer, showcasing a concept rooted in tradition. Despite physical limitations, their enduring love transcends the conventional expectations of marriage. This narrative thread suggests that, even in the face of societal changes and evolving norms, there are enduring aspects of tradition that continue to shape the understanding of marriage. In short, these diverse concepts of convenience, love, and tradition within the marriages presented in the story contribute to a rich tapestry of perspectives on relationships, inviting readers to ponder the complexities and nuances that define the institution of marriage.
Works Cited: The Yellow Wallpaper and What We Talk
- Craver, Raymond. “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” from The Story and it’s Writer edited by Ann Charters. Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2015, pp. 132-143۔
- Gilman, Charlotte Perkins. “The Yellow Wallpaper” from The Story and it’s Writer edited by Ann Charters. Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2015, pp. 392-405.
Relevant Questions The Yellow Wallpaper and What We Talk
- How does Charlotte Perkins Gilman in “The Yellow Wallpaper” and Raymond Carver in “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” explore the theme of confinement, both physically and emotionally, within the context of their respective narratives?
- In “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love,” how do the characters’ conversations and interactions reflect the complexities and ambiguities surrounding the concept of love? Compare and contrast this with the portrayal of marriage in “The Yellow Wallpaper.”
- Analyze the role of symbolism in “The Yellow Wallpaper” and “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.” How do Gilman and Carver use symbolism to convey deeper meanings and comment on societal norms and expectations, particularly within the dynamics of relationships and marriages?
