Blog 3: Irene in Re-Encounter

Irene falsely presents herself as a confident, mature woman. However, in part two of the novel, we discover that she is not as happy with her life as we are led to believe. Her actions reflect her character in an unappealing light. As evidence, when she says, “And yet, wouldn't he [Brian], perhaps, have been merely ordinarily good- looking but for the richness, the beauty of his skin, which was of an exquisitely fine texture and deep copper colour (pg.93).” It is evident that she puts much value into wealth and status. There is an unaffectionate quality to her tone whenever she speaks to her husband. Also, it is apparent that Irene feels responsible for Brian’s wealth because she discouraged the move from New York. In a way, it is almost as if she is resentful for the life her husband has as a physician because, in her eyes, she is the reason he is successful. She craves the credit. Even though Clare and Irene were friends as children, the two women of the same mixed race lead different lives. Clare is married to a white man who believes that she herself is white as well. The fact that Clare is able to “pass” off as being white irritates Irene. Throughout the re-encounter part of the book, Irene makes little comments that suggest she resents Clare. For example, Irene says, “Why, oh why, couldn't she ever manage to be on time? Brian had been up for ages, had made some calls for all she knew, besides having taken the boys downtown to school. And she wasn't dressed yet; had only begun. Damn Clare! This morning it was her fault (pg. 90).” She manages to portray herself as a victim and completely places the blame on Clare. At first, I thought that Irene was a friend to Clare and that they share a bond from their similar backgrounds. However, it became unquestionable clear that Irene is a selfish woman that constantly compares her life with Clare’s. It is safe to say that Irene considers Clare a foolish person that is not worthy of the life she has because she is living a lie.