In Joyce Carol Oates' novel "The Falls," the protagonist, Ariah, undergoes a dramatic transformation as she prepares for her wedding. Dressed in an elaborate white satin gown, the various intricate details of which serve to bind her physically and emotionally, Ariah feels trapped and constrained, likened to a straitjacket. The corset, insisted upon by her mother-in-law, adds to her discomfort, making it nearly impossible for her to breathe as she faces the gravity of her marital vows.

The narrative hints at the societal pressures weighing on Ariah, especially as the bride of a man with a troubled reputation. Despite her own discomfort, she is acutely aware of the scrutiny she faces, and a single sneeze could unravel her carefully constructed wedding. The text highlights a complex interplay of personal struggle and societal expectation, suggesting that Ariah's predicament extends beyond the physical confines of her gown to the very essence of her impending marriage.