Sweet, she thought. He must think I can't bear to hear him say it. That after all I have told him and after telling me how many feet I have, "goodbye" would break me to pieces. Ain't that sweet."So long," she murmured from the far side of the trees.
In "Beloved" by Toni Morrison, the character reflects on a conversation with someone important in her life. She perceives a sense of irony in his assumption that she would crumble at the words "goodbye." This reveals her inner strength and complexity, suggesting that she has faced much hardship and is more resilient than he realizes. The thought is tinged with a bitter sweetness, as she recognizes the care behind his words but also feels misunderstood. As she murmurs "So long" from a distance, it signifies a poignant moment of farewell. The trees create a barrier, symbolizing both physical distance and emotional separation. This juxtaposition of her fortitude and the tenderness of their relationship highlights the themes of loss and longing in the narrative. Through this moment, Morrison explores the nuances of love and goodbye, enriching the reader's understanding of the character's emotional landscape.
