Have you ever read a single word in a novel that seemed to carry the weight of the entire story? In Kate Chopin’s masterpiece, readers often stumble over archaic terms, wondering about their deeper significance. Understanding how is the word plumb used in The Awakening is key to unlocking the psychological depth of Edna Pontellier’s transformation.
This article breaks down the linguistic and symbolic nuances of this specific term. We will explore its literal definitions, its metaphorical implications in the text, and why Chopin’s choice of vocabulary matters for modern readers analyzing this classic American literature.
What Does “Plumb” Mean in the Context of the Novel?
To grasp the literary weight of the word, we must first look at its dictionary definition. In the late 19th century, when The Awakening was published (1899), “plumb” was commonly used as an adverb meaning “completely,” “absolutely,” or “vertically straight.”
However, its root is nautical and construction-based. A “plumb line” is a weighted cord used to determine vertical depth or straightness. When applied to human emotion or action, it suggests a descent into the deepest, most unfiltered parts of the self.
Literal vs. Figurative Usage
| Usage Type | Definition | Context in Literature |
|---|---|---|
| Literal | Vertically downward; perpendicular. | Measuring the depth of the ocean or a building’s foundation. |
| Figurative | Completely; utterly; thoroughly. | Describing an emotional state or a decisive action. |
| Symbolic | Depth, truth, and finality. | Edna’s dive into her own desires, ignoring societal surface norms. |
In Chopin’s prose, the word often bridges these meanings. It is not just about doing something “completely”; it is about doing it with a sense of irreversible depth. When Edna acts, she does not dabble; she goes plumb into the experience.
How Is the Word Plumb Used in The Awakening? Key Scenes
Readers frequently ask how is the word plumb used in The Awakening because it appears in moments of high tension or realization. While the word itself may not appear on every page, its conceptual presence is felt in the narrative structure. Chopin uses language that evokes verticality and depth—swimming, diving, falling—to mirror the adverbial use of “plumb.”
The Symbolism of Vertical Depth
The most famous scene involving depth is Edna’s swimming lesson. When she finally learns to swim, she feels a sense of power and isolation. She wants to swim far out, where no woman has swum before. This act is “plumb” in nature—it is a complete surrender to the self and the sea.
The sea in The Awakening is seductive, never ceasing, whispering, clamoring, murmuring, inviting the soul to wander in abysses of solitude. When Edna engages with the sea, she is engaging with the “plumb” truth of her existence, stripping away the superficial layers of her role as a mother and wife.
Emotional Absoluteness
Chopin’s characters often deal in absolutes. Edna does not partially reject her society; she rejects it plumb. She does not half-heartedly pursue art; she immerses herself in it. This usage aligns with the Southern and Midwestern dialectical use of the time, where “plumb” served as an intensifier.
For example, if a character were described as being “plumb tired,” it meant they were exhausted to their core. In Edna’s case, her awakening is a “plumb” change—a total restructuring of her identity from the inside out, rather than a superficial adjustment.
Why Did Kate Chopin Choose Such Specific Diction?
Kate Chopin was known for her realistic portrayal of Creole life in Louisiana. Her use of regional dialect and precise vocabulary adds authenticity to the narrative. But beyond realism, her word choices serve a thematic purpose.
Creating a Sense of Irreversibility
The word “plumb” implies a point of no return. Once a plumb line drops, it finds the bottom. Once Edna awakens, she cannot go back to sleep. This linguistic choice reinforces the tragedy of the novel. There is no middle ground for Edna. She is either fully submerged in societal expectations or fully submerged in her own desires.
By using words that connote depth and completeness, Chopin signals to the reader that Edna’s journey is not a fleeting whim. It is a fundamental shift in her ontology (her state of being).
Contrast with Surface-Level Society
The society around Edna is obsessed with surfaces—appearances, reputations, and proper behavior. They skim the top of life. Edna, by contrast, seeks the “plumb” depth. This contrast creates the central conflict of the novel. The friction between the surface-dwelling society and the depth-seeking protagonist drives the narrative forward.
For more context on the historical usage of such terms in American literature, you can refer to resources on American Literary Realism which discusses how authors like Chopin used language to reflect genuine human experiences.
Analyzing the “Plumb” Metaphor in Modern Criticism
Literary critics have long debated the symbolism in The Awakening. Many argue that the vertical imagery (up/down, deep/shallow) is central to understanding Edna’s psyche.
The Descent into Self
Some scholars view Edna’s awakening as a descent. In traditional religious or moral frameworks, going “down” is often associated with sin or failure. However, Chopin subverts this. For Edna, going “plumb” down into her feelings is an ascent toward truth. It is a rejection of the hollow “high” society status in favor of the authentic “low” depths of human emotion.
The Final Dive
The ending of the novel, where Edna walks into the sea, is the ultimate “plumb” moment. It is a complete, absolute act. She does not hesitate. She does not look back. She commits to the depth entirely. This final act answers the question of how is the word plumb used in The Awakening by showing its most extreme application: total existential commitment.
FAQ: Common Questions About Language in The Awakening
1. Does the word “plumb” appear frequently in the text?
While “plumb” is not the most repeated word in the novel, its concept is pervasive. Chopin uses synonyms and related imagery (depth, sea, dive, sink) to create a consistent motif. When “plumb” is used, it serves as a linguistic anchor for these broader themes.
2. What is the difference between “plumb” and “plum”?
This is a common confusion. “Plum” is a fruit. “Plumb” refers to vertical depth or completeness. In older texts, spelling variations occurred, but in standard edited versions of The Awakening, “plumb” is used correctly as an adverb or adjective related to depth/straightness.
3. How does the setting influence the use of this word?
The novel is set in Louisiana, near the Gulf of Mexico. The geography is defined by water and depth. The language reflects this environment. Words related to swimming, diving, and measuring depth are natural fits for the setting, enhancing the atmospheric realism.
4. Is “plumb” considered outdated today?
Yes, in modern American English, using “plumb” as an intensifier (e.g., “I’m plumb exhausted”) is considered archaic or dialectal, often associated with rural Southern or Midwestern speech. However, in literary analysis, recognizing this usage helps us understand the character’s background and the era’s voice.
5. How does this word relate to Edna’s independence?
Independence requires clarity. A plumb line provides a true vertical reference, unaffected by wind or tilt. Similarly, Edna seeks a “true” reference point for her life, independent of societal tilting. She seeks her own vertical truth, even if it leads to isolation.
6. Can I use “plumb” in my own writing?
You can, but be aware of its tone. It will sound rustic or old-fashioned. In academic writing about The Awakening, it is excellent for quoting or analyzing specific passages. In casual modern writing, “completely” or “totally” is usually preferred unless you are aiming for a specific stylistic effect.
Conclusion: The Depth of Chopin’s Language
Understanding how is the word plumb used in The Awakening offers more than just a vocabulary lesson; it provides a lens into the soul of the novel. Chopin uses this simple term to convey complex ideas about depth, truth, and absoluteness.
Edna Pontellier’s journey is not a shallow ripple; it is a deep dive. By paying attention to words like “plumb,” readers can appreciate the meticulous craft behind Chopin’s storytelling. The word reminds us that Edna’s awakening was total, irreversible, and profoundly deep.
Did this analysis help you understand the text better? Share this article with your book club or classmates on social media to spark a deeper conversation about Kate Chopin’s literary genius. Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you have other questions about symbols in The Awakening!
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