Posted by Kathy R on June 29, 1997 at 22:41:25:
In reply to Re: Dancing at the Weston's Ball posted by Laraine on June 27, 1997 at 11:34:05
When they actually start the dance, he puts his arm around her waist. This beyond cool. It's probably also beyond being out of character and out of century, but it adds SOOOO much to this scene for me. It's the real moment when they begin to join, become aware of each other on a physical level. Emma knows it too--you can see it in her face and the uncertainty of her expression. Knightley looks so composed and satisfied with himself that it worked, that she's aware of him physically. And he's really enjoying himself. I LOVE this interaction.
] Laraine
________
This is a lovely scene that gets better with each viewing. I don't think there are many people today who can appreciate what dancing could mean to a couple in love, even as recently as the 1940's. In the 1970's, my then-boyfriend and I once took my parents to one of the few remaining ballrooms in our city for their anniversary. We danced all evening to big band music. I danced with my father (who was a very smooth dancer--I felt like a clumsy ox!)and he remarked nostalgically how thrilling it was for a guy to dance with a girl he had a crush on. To be able to hold her close and feel her hair against his cheek--all in a socially acceptable manner. The dance at the Westons was a chance for Emma and Knightley to touch on such an intimate basis--with eye-opening results! It almost becomes a courtship dance.