One prominent theme in the passage from "A Pair of Silk Stockings" is the struggle between aspiration and reality, particularly in the context of financial limitations. Mrs. Sommers, upon unexpectedly acquiring fifteen dollars, is filled with dreams of providing better clothing for her children, illustrating her desire to elevate their circumstances. She envisions small luxuries, such as new shoes and gowns, and imagines "her little brood looking fresh and dainty and new for once in their lives." This excitement reflects her longing for a better life, yet it also highlights her current financial constraints, as she calculates how to allocate the money wisely to meet her family's needs.
A Pair of Silk Stockings
by Kate Chopin
Little Mrs. Sommers one day found herself the unexpected possessor of fifteen dollars. It seemed to her a very large amount of money, and the way in which it stuffed and bulged her worn old porte-monnaie gave her a feeling of importance such as she had not enjoyed for years.
The question of investment was one that occupied her greatly. For a day or two she walked about apparently in a dreamy state, but really absorbed in speculation and calculation. She did not wish to act hastily, to do anything she might afterward regret. But it was during the still hours of the night when she lay awake revolving plans in her mind that she seemed to see her way clearly toward a proper and judicious use of the money.
A dollar or two should be added to the price usually paid for Janie’s shoes, which would insure their lasting an appreciable time longer than they usually did. She would buy so and so many yards of percale for new shirt waists for the boys and Janie and Mag. She had intended to make the old ones do by skillful patching. Mag should have another gown. She had seen some beautiful patterns, veritable bargains in the shop windows. And still there would be left enough for new stockings—two pairs apiece—and what darning that would save for a while! She would get caps for the boys and sailor-hats for the girls. The vision of her little brood looking fresh and dainty and new for once in their lives excited her and made her restless and wakeful with anticipation.
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Question
Use the passage from “A Pair of Silk Stockings” to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, identify one or more themes in the passage. Cite details from the passage to support your answer.
1 answer