Ethan Frome: When Love Becomes Bitter - Book Report/Review Example

Ethan and the lady never pronounced or showed their affection to each other even during the night they were both left alone because Zeena had to leave town to see her doctor. Although they spoke and got close to each other during the absence of Zeena, Ethan and Mattie repressed their feelings until the wife came home. Zeena claimed she needs a more efficient helper so she is sending Mattie away and that she will be hiring another helper. Seeing the possibility of not seeing Mattie again, Ethan planned to run away with Mattie.

However, his decision was not put into action as he felt guilt towards his wife. When Mattie was about to leave, Ethan takes the woman to the train station where they both confessed their feelings towards each other. They went sledding and Mattie suggested they commit suicide by sledding to an elm tree so that they will have their last moments together and Ethan agreed to it. However, the plan did not succeed. Mattie got paralyzed and became bitter. She was taken care of by the sickly Zeena. Ethan lived with the two women in his life but in misery.