CHAPTER XIII -Dawn O’Hara: The Girl Who Laughed

In Chapter XIII of “Dawn O’Hara, The Girl Who Laughed,” Dawn reflects on the evolving notions of marriage and age, notably her own transition from a young bride at twenty to her present self at thirty, who desires stability over passion. She decides to distance herself from Ernst von Gerhard, the man she is growing fond of, to focus on her duties and avoid jeopardizing her emotional stability. Despite her resolve, Dawn’s nights are filled with pessimistic thoughts about her attractiveness and desirability, contrasted with the allure of other women Ernst encounters daily.

Dawn struggles with her feelings for Ernst, acknowledging their compatibility yet aware of her commitments to her estranged husband, Peter Orme, and her family. She finds herself in turmoil, writing off her emotions as fruitless and chastising herself for her vulnerability. This internal conflict leads her to work fervently on her writing, using it as an escape.

A day out with Ernst in his motor-car culminates in a significant, tempting, yet troubling proposal at a road-house. Ernst announces his plans to study in Europe and subtly invites Dawn to envision a life there with him. This moment brings Dawn to a crossroads; she faces the reality of her situation and the moral implications of seeking happiness with Ernst while still married to Peter, who is institutionalized and oblivious to his surroundings. Ernst’s plea for her to divorce Peter and join him in seeking happiness overseas forces Dawn to confront her values head-on.

Dawn emphatically refuses Ernst’s proposal, expressing her inability to betray Peter despite his condition. She emphasizes the inhumanity of abandoning her helpless husband for personal happiness, highlighting a profound sense of duty and morality. Her rejection is rooted in a deep conviction that true happiness cannot be built on a foundation of deceit and wrongdoing, no matter the current legality or societal views on her marriage situation.

This chapter examines the complexity of human emotions, the struggle between duty and desire, and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals caught in difficult personal circumstances. Dawn’s character is portrayed as deeply moral, valuing integrity and the well-being of others over her own happiness, despite the cost to her heart.