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When she did come, it was very evident that she had no pleasure in it. She made a slight formal apology for not calling before. She said not a word of wishing to.?

Published in Literary Analysis 3 mins read

When she did come, it was very evident that she had no pleasure in it. She made a slight formal apology for not calling before. She said not a word of wishing to see me again.

Understanding the Disinterested Visit in Pride and Prejudice

The quoted passage details a rather unpleasant and revealing social visit, characteristic of the intricate social dynamics found in classic literature like Pride and Prejudice. This particular encounter highlights a significant shift in a character's demeanor, reflecting underlying tensions and a deliberate desire to distance herself from the recipient of the visit.

A Distant Demeanor

The visitor's arrival was marked by a clear lack of enjoyment, suggesting an obligation rather than genuine inclination. Her actions immediately conveyed a sense of formality and detachment:

  • Absence of Pleasure: It was "very evident that she had no pleasure in it," indicating discomfort or even disdain for the situation or the person being visited.
  • Formal Apology: She offered a "slight, formal apology, for not calling before." This suggests a perfunctory gesture, devoid of warmth or true regret, perhaps offered only to maintain a facade of politeness.
  • Lack of Future Desire: Crucially, she "said not a word of wishing to see me again," explicitly signaling her disinterest in continuing the acquaintance or forging any closer bond.

Signs of Displeasure

The visit was not merely devoid of pleasure but was actively characterized by behaviors that bespoke an "altered creature." This transformation was so profound that it led to a firm resolution on the part of the person being visited.

Aspect of Visit Expected Behavior Actual Behavior Implication
Enthusiasm for Meeting Eagerness, warmth "No pleasure in it" Obligation, aversion
Apology for Delay Sincere regret, explanation "Slight, formal apology" Perfunctory, dismissive
Desire for Future Expressed hope for next meeting "Not a word of wishing to see me again" Definitive desire to end the acquaintance
Overall Demeanor Friendly, engaging "In every respect so altered a creature" Significant negative change, possibly cold or haughty

Impact on the Relationship

The cumulative effect of her coldness and obvious disinterest was immediate and conclusive. The observer's response was a decisive one: "when she went away I was perfectly resolved to continue the acquaintance no longer." This outcome underscores the visitor's success, whether intentional or not, in severing the bond and leaving a lasting negative impression. This kind of interaction serves to advance the narrative by highlighting character relationships and setting the stage for future developments.