During class discussions Ive noticed that some of the students are finding Ethel Wilson’s novel The Innocent Traveller tedious and difficult to enjoy due to its lack of character and plot development. True, the lengthy descriptions in the book can seem tiring and overwhelming at times. Nevertheless, small details, though seemingly insignificant, give the readers insight into Ethel Wilson’s view of human nature.
Rereading the chapter, The Journey, has leaded me to the following: we are what our memories are. For instance, Annie’s encounter with an actor, Mr. Otis, in which she feels that he is “so kind and…so truly good” directs her into allowing Rose to the Opera house many years later. This, in more than one way, shows us that people take the memories of their past and carry them into the future by makes decisions upon it. What a refreshing idea is it to think that our past, present and future are tied together by our memory and our interpretation of it alone. And all this wouldnt be seen if it wasnt for the enormous amount of details included in the book. .
On a lighter note, I think that the characters in the book would not have been as interesting to me if it wasnt for the abundance of details. Take the three ladies’ journey to Vancouver for example; one can’t help but notice the different responses in the three Edgeworth women upon their arrival and be charmed by it. The courageous Grandmother Annie, leaves behind her beloved family, shows us her incredible readiness to adapt and “learn new ways.” Topaz, spirited as always, takes her enthusiasm and talkativeness to another level with the passengers she meets on the voyage. Nothing seems to be able to discourage her from being herself (chatting with the gentlemen in the smoking room) and she suggests that they must, in her opinion, “be less conventional.” Lastly, Rachel, too often preoccupied with the family affairs, found herself in the open countries of Canada and feels, almost immediately, “Canadian.”
Therefore, I think The Innocent Traveller isnt a book that can be confined to the standard plot, conflict, climax, and conclusion practices, you must read it as it is and enjoy it, yes, as a collection of details.
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2 comments:
Yes Debby, I agree with your conclusion. The Innocent Traveller is a collection of stories and therefore there is not that build-up of a climax we are used to in a story that makes it interesting to a reader. Each Chapter has its own theme although still highlights the overall nature of the character throughout the book.
I agree with your opinion that it seems like some people are having trouble appreciating The Innocent Traveller. I find that the one thing that allowed me to overcome my sense ideas of "why is nothing happening" by realizing that this story is very similar to some people's lives. Some people go through life not really doing anything at all. This book can give a reader an appreciation of life and time...It's all too often that I say, "Another week gone by, where does the time go?" Time is what we make of it.
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