In the scene, a woman, while enjoying her drink, observes her brother and his wife with a sense of critical reflection. This moment brings back memories of past grievances, real or imagined, illustrating how family relationships can be complicated and fraught with unresolved tensions. The proximity of family often magnifies these underlying issues, leading to a unique bitterness that is hard to dispel.

The passage highlights the idea that within families, past injustices can linger, shaping current interactions. The woman’s critical gaze suggests a long-standing friction, emphasizing how familial bonds can sometimes breed resentment. Cheever captures the complexity of family dynamics, where affection and animosity coexist, making it difficult for members to connect without recalling past conflicts.