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Pemberley Image Gallery: Persuasion: Only Anne
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Images © H.Talbot
Persuasion (8.9.97)
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In Amy's framed format
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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.
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'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.'
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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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