In George Eliot's "The Lifted Veil," the narrative portrays a newlywedded couple engulfed in luxury and societal demands. Their day is characterized by a frantic pace, leaving them with fleeting moments of intimacy that lack depth. This rushed existence hints at an underlying emptiness, suggesting that their connection may be superficial rather than genuine.

The imagery of their whirlwind day contrasts sharply with the serene devotion expected in a lifelong partnership. Eliot draws a parallel between the couple's hurried experience and a novice entering a cloister, indicating that true preparation for a meaningful relationship requires more than just material wealth or fleeting pleasures. This perspective challenges the notion of happiness tied to social status, highlighting the need for profound emotional investment instead.