EXPLORE THE CONTRAST BETWEEN WINDY CORNER AND MRS VYSE'S 'WELL APPOINTED FLAT.' HOW DOES OUR KNOWLEDGE OF THESE ENVIRONMENTS PREPARE US FOR THE CONFLICT IN THE NOVEL. The first comparison to be drawn between the two environs is of their names. This is the first piece of information the reader is given, and is therefore of significance, as they have different connotations. "Windy Corner" has links to nature and the weather due to the word 'windy.' It implies change and movement-which is definitely applicable to that household. The 'Corner' suggests a sheltered resting-place, which is quite appropriate because the household does seem somewhat removed or protected from society. This is ...view middle of the document...
In the flat, Lucy plays both Schumann and Beethoven, whereas at Windy Corner, it is lucky to stay in one piece, "you needn't kick the piano!" (pg 104) The piano is not taken as seriously at Windy Corner, which is another indication of their easy-going attitude.The different environments also help us to find out about the characters of Lucy and Cecil. When they are introduced to their partner's homes, the reader gets fresh a insight into their characters. Cecil is discontented with the "bone and maple's furniture" because from his point of view, they do not 'fit' together. He also considers what could be done to make the drawing room more "distinctive." As soon as he arrives he begins to find fault with Windy Corner, and it is quite clear that he does not fit in, especially with the game of 'bumblepuppy.' When Lucy is brought to the flat she saw that "her London career would estrange her a little from all that she had loved in the past." In fact, being in London has a negative effect on Lucy, which manifests itself in the form of a "nightmare." When Cecil is introduced to Windy Corner, he wants to change it, but when Lucy goes to the flat she is changed. Mrs Vyse's intention is to "make Lucy one of us." This is similar to Cecil's view of her, as if she is a piece of clay that he can mould.There are several conflicting issues that arise due to the differences between the two environs. The most obvious and broad conflict is that of town versus country. Lucy sees London as a "deserted metropolis," but the area in which Windy Corner is situated is described by Forster as if the "spirit of youth dwelt in it." As Windy...