The motif being developed in this passage is inner conflict. The characters, particularly Dulcena, are navigating a complex social situation with implications tied to their families and past interactions. Dulcena's concern about her mother's curiosity and her father's impending attention indicates a struggle between personal feelings and external pressures. Their shared dance evokes nostalgia and familiarity, contrasting with the backdrop of their families' estrangement, which contributes to the inner turmoil they both experience.
We’re being watched she whispered leaning into me as we took to the floor and swayed with the music. Mama is intrigued but Madame Josette kniend exactly who you are. I scanned the room as we turned in the waltz. Dona Serafina sat at a table to our left. I think Madame Josette is trying to distract her I whispered, sweeping Dulcena farther away from the two women. “Where’s your father” against the far wall, to your right. Dulcena dipper her head in that general direction. Don Rodrigo was talking to Mr. Simmons our neighbor over by Las Moras and co owner of the sugar mill. He looked busy. Yes but not for long, he’ll be joining mama soon and they will want to know who I’m dancing with, Dulcena whispered. Taking my lead, she twirled beautifully under my uplifted hand. The ease of our movement together surprised me, we hadn’t had occasion to dance with each other in more than two years, not since our parents stopped socializing. It felt good to hold her in my arms again.
Which motif is being developed in this passage?
Youth versus age
The loss of love
Inner conflict
Fear of failure
1 answer