Pemberley Image Gallery:

Persuasion: Only Anne


Images © H.Talbot

Persuasion (8.9.97)

In Amy's framed format

The hazelnut was an idea taken from a favourite scene in Persuasion where Anne overhears Wentworth comparing Louisa to a hazelnut that has weathered everything. It relates to the cental question in the novel: how subject to different kinds of persuasion should people be? Of course Anne fits Wentworth's description much better than Louisa, but he hasn't realised yet.

'a beautiful glossy nut, which, blessed with original strength, has outlived all the storms of autumn. Not a puncture, not a week spot any where. - This nut,' he continued with playful solemnity, - while so many of its bretheren have fallen and been trodden under foot, is still in possession of all the happiness that a hazel-nut can be supposed capable of.' Then, returning to his former earnest tone ; 'My first wish for all, whom I am interested in, is that they should be firm. If Louisa Musgrove would be beautiful and happy in her November of life, she will cherish all her present powers of mind.'

Only Anne hears, sees, and fully understands all that happens around her, and, where appropriate, acts courageously. If you are interested in this interpretation, do try to get hold of a copy of Stuart Tave's wonderful book, 'Some Words of Jane Austen' (ISBN 0-226-79016-9, University of Chicago Press).

There are some spoof Persuasion graphics on the next page.

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