The second book of the “Anne of Green Gables” series delves into the continuation of the life of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s unique character, Anne Shirley, in detail. The book narrates Anne’s experiences in her education, as well as her romantic relationships and personal development.
Anne is stepping into adulthood, and during this period, her relationship with Marilla deepens even further. Marilla is a significant figure in Anne’s life, and her bonds with Marilla strengthen with both emotional and practical life lessons. Anne encounters various challenges in her adult life, which further fortify her character.
The book also focuses on Anne’s romantic life. As Anne searches for her beloved somewhere deep in her heart, she experiences different emotional relationships and discovers the impact of these relationships on her personal development. Additionally, her relationships with people around her are explored, and Anne grows through the experiences of shaping her friendships, family ties, and social relationships.
I’d be glad to analyze a few quotes:
● “Failure is not failure, but aimlessness is a crime.
“This quote emphasizes that while failure often arises from attempts and efforts, contributing to one’s development, aimlessness, on the other hand, signifies a lack of direction or purpose. It suggests that in the face of failure, there is still value in the effort, but aimlessness prevents one from utilizing their potential and seizing growth opportunities.
● “There are plenty more springs to live.”
This quote, though seemingly simple, conveys one of life’s most important lessons: that everything, absolutely everything, is transient. Feelings, situations, even bad days will pass, and spring will bring its beauty again. It teaches the impermanence of everything.
● “In this imperfect world, we cannot make everything perfect.”
It highlights the negative impact of striving for perfection in a world full of imperfections. Even in an environment where one might expect richness and perfection, the reality is flawed, making it impossible for everything in our lives to be flawless.
● “Life doesn’t allow you to be constantly sad. However much you try to be unhappy and romantic, life continues to make you happy.”
This quote parallels the message conveyed in the book. No matter how deeply one is affected by an event, life will unexpectedly bring moments of joy when least expected. It’s illogical for everything to constantly go wrong.
● “…but I love you, just because you are you.”
Despite being a cliché, this phrase is one of the most beautiful things one can say to another. Human nature is inherently selfish, in my opinion. I don’t believe someone can live by always prioritizing others’ well-being over their own. However, when someone says this to you, without expecting anything in return, it means they’ve truly loved you, flaws and all.
● “Sometimes if I don’t pretend, I feel like I can’t breathe.”
This quote gives us the secret to surviving in the brutality of life. It’s about living a part of our lives in our minds when so much is beyond our control. Our perception of events keeps us alive. While a minor event might be forgettable for one person, it could be a lifelong trauma for another. In this mindset, someone constantly seeking traumas will never be happy. So, this quote doesn’t teach self-deception; rather, it suggests that sometimes, to be happy, we need to consciously adjust our perspective.
In conclusion, the book emphasizes the power of hope, love, and imagination. Despite the difficulties Anne faces in her life, she always moves forward with hope and discovers the transformative power of love. This book offers readers important lessons about growth and life through Anne’s adventures.