Austen, Sayers, ...and straw
Posted by KathleenB on August 31, 1998 at 19:22:50:
In response to Thrones, Dominations -classical proportions in Austen and Sayers , written by sanna on August 21, 1998 at 13:01:25
Thanks, I will have to look for this book now. I had never linked Austen and Sayers in my mind before, just knew that I loved them both, so your comments were very interesting and seemed apt IMHO.
As regards your question:
now this is pure ignorance...What does "go up like a straw" mean? Some hidden symbolism?... "hadnīt she once told Miss de Vine that if she once gave way to Peter she would go up like straw?"p.171
Not "a straw", "straw". I would assume this refers to straw as a material which burns very easily - ie that if she ever "gave way" to Peter she would be burning with passionate love which might destroy her in some way. This is something she was afraid of for various reasons, including 1) because passion was what got her into the awful relationship with her (happily, dead) boyfriend in "Strong Poison". 2) She was afraid of the social implications, especially for him, if he got involved with such a notorious woman. 3) She doesn't want to be in love with someone she feels indebted to for her life, this would be too great a burden and inequality in the relationship. All these conflicts run through the books but are especially evident in "Gaudy Night" and "Busman's Honeymoon", which show how they are resolved.
Sorry, long answer to short question!
As for the "marriage was ordained..." quotation, it sounds like the Anglican Wedding Service to me. Anyone know for sure? I'll try to do some research.
- another answer - maybe? KathleenB 20:28:15 8/31/98
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- Thank you, KathleenB... sanna 10:05:11 9/02/98
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- sorry the previous is all in italics - need more pratice NFM KathleenB 20:30:57 8/31/98
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- Thank you, KathleenB... sanna 10:05:11 9/02/98
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