It's you who are telling me; opening my eyes to things I'd looked at so long that I'd ceased to see them

It's you who are telling me; opening my eyes to things I'd looked at so long that I'd ceased to see them

Edith Wharton, a renowned American novelist and short story writer, was known for her keen observations of society and human behavior. In her works, she often delved into the complexities of relationships, class distinctions, and the constraints of societal norms. One of the recurring themes in her writing was the idea of self-awareness and the power of introspection.

The quote, “It's you who are telling me; opening my eyes to things I'd looked at so long that I'd ceased to see them,” encapsulates the essence of Wharton's exploration of self-discovery and personal growth. In many of her stories, characters undergo a process of awakening, where they are forced to confront their own biases, prejudices, and misconceptions. Through the guidance of others or through their own introspection, they are able to see the world in a new light and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Wharton's characters often find themselves trapped in a cycle of routine and complacency, unable to see beyond their own limited perspectives. It is only through the intervention of others, whether through a mentor, a friend, or a lover, that they are able to break free from their self-imposed constraints and truly see the world for what it is.

In Wharton's novel, "The Age of Innocence," the protagonist Newland Archer is confronted with the limitations of his own social class and the constraints of societal expectations. It is through his interactions with the unconventional and free-spirited Countess Olenska that he begins to question his own values and beliefs. She opens his eyes to a world beyond the confines of his privileged upbringing, forcing him to reevaluate his own desires and aspirations.

Similarly, in "Ethan Frome," the titular character is trapped in a loveless marriage and a life of quiet desperation. It is only through his relationship with the vivacious and spirited Mattie Silver that he is able to see the possibilities of a different life. She awakens in him a sense of longing and desire, prompting him to take action and break free from his stagnant existence.