Water is also present in the never-ending rain in Thornhill’s London. Falling from the heavens, battering the streets and those who live on it, perhaps the rain represents oppression and a lack of control. Water continues to serve as a negative image with the frozen lake, which could possibly refer to the stagnant state of Thornhill’s wealth and hope during the winter time. And while I haven’t yet read about Thornhill’s account of his voyage to Australia, I would guess that he detested the ocean waters too.
The only positive reflection of water so far is the River Thames. To Thornhill, it symbolizes freedom, control, self-confidence, and an exciting look into the wealthy world he does not have access too. In a way, Thornhill encountering wealthy gentry on the Thames reminds me of Gatsby gazing at the East Egg from his West Egg home: both are tantalizingly close to an unattainable prize.
As we continue reading, I will be sure to look out for more images of water and their possible meanings.
Hey Heather! While reading your post I honestly didn't make the connection of the various water imagery and diction with the name of the title. Now realizing, that we may not know the meaning of the title yet, but I think it does show us that the motif of water will continue to show up throughout the text and perhaps even play a very important role despite the fact that will is no longer a waterman (as far as we know). I also like the way in which you mentioned that a possible symbolism for the reoccurrence of water in William Thornhill story is because of his stagnant position and the fact that, no matter how hard he tries, he will never be able to truly go up the social economic ladder on his own merit just like he can't control the rain. I appreciated your insight!
ReplyDeleteHey Heather! Despite the fact that the novel is called "The Secret River," all of the water imagery went over my head. I also completely forgot that it rains in London! I love your analysis of the rain. I think that it's a really interesting idea to compare the rain to oppression and lack of control. It kind of reminds me of how uncontrollable water is in general. For example, there are many natural diseases are with water, like hurricanes, tsunamis, floodings, and more. I'm not sure what Australia is like, but I've heard that certain areas are quite dry, so I wonder how this water imagery might continue while William is in Australia.
ReplyDeleteHey Heather. I agree that the river of Thames does not seem to be the "Secret River" mentioned in the title. Looking on the cover page, the sun is making an appearance. I do not recall there being any description of the sun so far. Perhaps it is a new river in Australia? Maybe he continued his work there while he was in jail. Still, the "secret" part does not make much sense yet. I appreciate your distinction between different types of water mentioned in the novel. I agree that the only positive form water takes is the River. Yet, even that seems oppressive too at times during storms and ultimately being the setting in which Will is caught and punished.
ReplyDeleteHey Heather! Yes, I'd agree that the river of Thames in London is likely not the secret river the title described given the large amount of activity that takes place on the river. Even though Thornhill doesn't sound excited to start a new life in Australia, maybe it's possible that the title of the novel describes a new opportunity awaiting Thornhill in New South Wales. I would agree with you that so far in the novel, water has symbolized lack of control. Thornhill has little control over his social mobility while in London as it continuously rains over the city. Then, Thornhill has no control over losing his wealth after the river freezes over. Hopefully Thornhill's luck with water changes in Australia.
ReplyDeleteA good question might be: why "secret" in the title?
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