Long Island
Part One:iii
by Tóibín, ColmIn this chapter, Eilis grapples with the unsettling news delivered by a man who threatens to leave a baby on her doorstep, a situation that deeply unsettles her and strains her relationship with Tony. Despite Rosella’s concern over Eilis’s health after a troubling episode, Eilis focuses on managing her daily tasks and avoiding confrontation with Tony, who remains distant and silent about the threat. Their nighttime conversations reveal layers of unspoken tension, with Eilis pressing Tony for clarity, and Tony reluctantly confirming the seriousness of the man’s intentions. The couple’s communication is marked by silence and guarded exchanges, underscoring the emotional distance growing between them.
Eilis finds solace in her work at the garage, using it as an escape from the uncomfortable atmosphere at home. While Tony maintains a facade of normalcy, his reluctance to discuss the impending crisis leaves Eilis isolated in her worries. The secrecy and burden weigh heavily on her, especially since Rosella and Larry remain unaware of the situation. Tony’s early retirements to bed and feigned sleep further emphasize the emotional chasm, leaving Eilis awake and contemplative beside him. This dynamic highlights the profound loneliness and uncertainty Eilis faces as she navigates this looming challenge alone.
The chapter also explores the conflict between Eilis’s resolve and Tony’s sense of obligation. When Eilis firmly states her refusal to care for the baby, Tony reminds her of their marital bond, intensifying the dilemma. Eilis acknowledges Tony’s helplessness but resists any sympathy that might weaken her stance. She recognizes Tony’s subtle attempts to maintain peace and the influence of his mother, Francesca, whose familial loyalty complicates matters further. The tension between personal boundaries and family expectations emerges as a central theme, illustrating the complexity of their predicament.
Towards the end, Eilis’s uncertainty prompts her to take proactive steps, including contacting Frank’s law office for an appointment, signaling her search for guidance amid the crisis. Her observations of Francesca’s unchanged demeanor suggest Tony’s reluctance to involve his mother, adding another layer of secrecy. This chapter captures Eilis’s emotional turmoil, the fragile state of her marriage, and the looming impact of an unexpected responsibility, setting the stage for difficult decisions ahead.
FAQs
1. What incident prompts Eilis to confront Tony about a potential baby being left on their doorstep, and how does Tony respond to her questions?
Answer:
Eilis confronts Tony after a man visits their home with a threat that he might leave a baby on their doorstep. This incident deeply unsettles Eilis, prompting her to ask Tony directly if the man’s threat is genuine. Initially, Tony remains silent, avoiding her questions, which increases her anxiety. Eventually, Tony admits that the man means what he says and plans to leave the baby with them. He acknowledges the man’s controlling nature and the fear he instills in the woman involved, but Tony’s reluctance to discuss the issue openly creates tension between them.2. How does Eilis’s attitude toward the situation with the baby evolve throughout the chapter, and what does this reveal about her character?
Answer:
At first, Eilis is anxious and seeks clarity from Tony about the threat. As the chapter progresses, she becomes resolute and firm, stating explicitly that she will not care for the baby if it is left with them. Her determination to avoid involvement, despite the emotional weight, reveals her strength and self-protectiveness. Eilis balances empathy with pragmatism, understanding Tony’s helplessness but refusing to soften her stance, which underscores her resolve to maintain control over her own life and boundaries.3. Analyze the dynamics of communication between Eilis and Tony in this chapter. How does silence and avoidance impact their relationship?
Answer:
Communication between Eilis and Tony is strained and fraught with silence. Tony’s initial refusal to speak about the baby threat and his avoidance of Eilis’s attempts to discuss it create emotional distance. His pretending to be asleep when she joins him in bed further emphasizes their disconnect. This silence builds tension and mistrust, leaving Eilis isolated with her fears. The lack of openness hinders their ability to support each other effectively, highlighting how avoidance in relationships can exacerbate stress and prevent resolution.4. Considering Tony’s mother Francesca’s character as described, how might her involvement influence the unfolding situation regarding the baby?
Answer:
Francesca is portrayed as a strong matriarch who tends to justify or excuse family conflicts, maintaining a narrative of love despite turmoil. Her influence could complicate the situation by potentially minimizing the severity of the problem or pressuring Eilis and Tony to accept the baby without fully addressing the emotional or practical challenges involved. Francesca’s attitude might create additional pressure on Eilis, making it harder for her to maintain boundaries, as Francesca’s support often comes with an expectation of family loyalty and endurance.5. If you were advising Eilis on how to handle the impending arrival of the baby, what strategies might you suggest based on the chapter’s depiction of her and Tony’s situation?
Answer:
I would advise Eilis to seek external support, such as counseling or legal advice, to navigate the complex emotional and practical implications. Since Tony is reluctant to communicate openly and Francesca’s influence could complicate matters, involving a neutral third party might help facilitate honest discussions and planning. Eilis should also establish clear boundaries while exploring options for the baby’s care to avoid being overwhelmed. Maintaining open communication with Tony is crucial, and she might benefit from confiding in trusted friends or professionals to share the burden and gain perspective.
Quotes
1. “‘Does that man who came today mean what he said? Does he really plan to leave a baby on my doorstep or is it just a way of letting you know how angry he is?’”
This quote captures the moment Eilis confronts Tony about the threatening situation, highlighting her need for clarity and the tension underlying their relationship. It represents a key turning point where the threat becomes personal and unavoidable.
2. “‘He means what he says,’ Tony whispered. ‘There’s no doubt about that. He loves making rules and big statements. He has her very frightened.’”
Tony’s admission confirms the seriousness of the threat and reveals the emotional impact on another character, adding depth to the conflict. This quote illustrates the inevitability of the challenge they face and the fear it instills.
3. “‘There are no circumstances under which I am going to look after a baby. It is your business, not mine.’”
Eilis’s firm refusal to take responsibility for the baby underscores her determination and sets the stage for the domestic conflict that follows. It highlights her boundaries and the strain the situation places on their marriage.
4. “Once she let herself see things from his perspective, the dilemma was clear. If he really believed that this man was going to dump a baby on their doorstep, then he must be feeling helpless. But she had to steel herself from feeling sympathy for him.”
This passage provides insight into Eilis’s internal struggle, balancing empathy with self-protection. It captures the emotional complexity of their predicament and her resolve to maintain distance from the impending crisis.
5. “Without her support, he could do nothing.”
This brief but powerful statement encapsulates the dynamic between Eilis and Tony, emphasizing her pivotal role in how they might handle the looming threat. It reflects the underlying dependence and the silent negotiation of power in their relationship.