The Apple Scene in Poor Things
The apple scene is a pivotal and iconic moment in C.S. Lewis’s novel Poor Things. This scene, which takes place in Chapter 17, is a turning point in the story and showcases the complexities of the human condition.
The Origins of the Apple Scene
Before we dive into the meaning behind the apple scene, it’s essential to understand the context. Poor Things is a novel that explores the life of Mary Lennox, a young girl who suffers from tuberculosis (TB). Mary is a complex character, and her emotions and relationships are deeply intertwined. In this chapter, we meet her friend, Martha Pickersgill, who is a kind and strong-willed woman.
The apple scene begins with Martha and Mary sitting together in the country house, discussing the state of Mary’s health. Martha tries to comfort Mary, but she soon becomes frustrated and overwhelmed by Mary’s emotions. "I think I want to throw myself at your feet and apologize for anything I have ever done," Mary says, indicating her deep sense of guilt and shame. "I don’t know if I can do that," Martha replies, trying to reassure Mary. "I don’t want you to do it, Mary," Martha says, as the tension between them becomes palpable.
The Consequences of the Apple Scene
The apple scene is a turning point in the story, marking a shift in the dynamics between Mary and Martha. It’s a moment of intense emotional intimacy, but also one of extreme conflict. "I don’t want to hurt you," Mary says, as she begins to weep. "Please don’t truly cry," Martha replies, her voice cracking with emotion. "I don’t want to be sick," Mary continues, her words laced with desperation.
As the scene progresses, it becomes clear that the apple scene is not just a moment of emotional turmoil but also a symbol of the intense emotional pain that Mary and Martha are both experiencing. "You’ll never be like me," Mary says, as she looks at Martha. "You’ll never be kind," Martha replies, her voice barely above a whisper.
The Significance of the Apple Scene
The apple scene is significant because it highlights the complexities of human emotions and relationships. "The apple of sorrow is very sweet," C.S. Lewis writes in his introduction to the 1949 edition of Poor Things. "This is a story about the pain of being alive, and the love that can bind us even in our sorrow."
The apple scene also marks a turning point in the story, as it reveals the deep emotional connection between Mary and Martha. "I think I want to hold you," Mary says, as she reaches out to Martha. "I don’t know if I can," Martha replies, as the scene comes to a close.
A Symbol of Love and Sorrow
The apple scene is also a symbol of love and sorrow. "The apple is my baby," Mary says, as she hugs Martha. "I don’t want to loosen my grip," Martha replies, her voice trembling with emotion.
This scene is significant because it highlights the intensity of Mary’s emotions and the depth of her feelings for Martha. "I want to hold you always," Mary says, as she looks at Martha. "I want to love you always," Martha replies, as the scene comes to a close.
Conclusion
The apple scene is a pivotal moment in Poor Things, marking a turning point in the story and showcasing the complexities of human emotions and relationships. "The apple of sorrow is very sweet," C.S. Lewis writes in his introduction to the 1949 edition of Poor Things. The apple scene is a symbol of love and sorrow, highlighting the intensity of Mary’s emotions and the depth of her feelings for Martha.
The apple scene is a powerful moment in the novel, and its significance extends beyond the story itself. It’s a reflection of the human condition, with all its complexities and emotions. As Lewis wrote, "The apple is a symbol of the fruit of the earth," and in this case, it’s the fruit of sorrow and love.
In conclusion, the apple scene in Poor Things is a powerful and poignant moment in the novel, marking a turning point in the story and highlighting the complexities of human emotions and relationships. It’s a symbol of love and sorrow, reflecting the intensity of Mary’s emotions and the depth of her feelings for Martha.