I turned from my window. Suddenly it seemed odd for my neighbors on both sides to have visitors while I had none. For the first time, I felt lonely at 'Sconset.Let's cook, Frannie said energetically. We will smell so good that they'll all come running. She picked up a bowl, filled it with apples from the barrel, and immediately began to cut them up. I put water to boil, got out cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, lard, flour, sugar, salt, saleratus, vinegar, and all the other things for apple pies. We both laughed happily. How easy it is, we thought, to make a decision, to implement a remedy, to act.
The narrator reflects on feelings of loneliness when she notices her neighbors entertaining guests while she is alone. This stark contrast for the first time makes her realize the emptiness she feels at 'Sconset. However, her friend Frannie brings a burst of energy and creativity, suggesting they cook together.
As Frannie enthusiastically gathers ingredients to make apple pies, the atmosphere shifts from solitude to joy. They share laughter and a sense of ease in taking action to alleviate their loneliness, illustrating the simplicity of companionship and shared activities in overcoming feelings of isolation.
