The passage suggests that an important theme of the novel is "New experiences can lead to personal growth." The character's sense of exultation and empowerment from her achievement of swimming farther than before indicates a transformative experience that boosts her confidence and leads her to realize her potential. This theme is reinforced by her reflection on the time lost in underestimating her abilities and her desire to explore new boundaries.
A feeling of exultation overtook her, as if some power of significant import had been given her to control the working of her body and her soul. She grew daring and reckless, overestimating her strength. She wanted to swim far out, where no woman had swum before.
Her unlooked-for achievement was the subject of wonder, applause, and admiration. Each one congratulated himself that his special teachings had accomplished this desired end.
“How easy it is!” she thought. “It is nothing,” she said aloud; “why did I not discover before that it was nothing. Think of the time I have lost splashing about like a baby!” She would not join the groups in their sports and bouts, but intoxicated with her newly conquered power, she swam out alone.
What does this passage suggest might be an important theme of this novel?
Swimming can save people’s lives.
New experiences can lead to personal growth.
Only reckless people can be happy.
Women can swim just as well as men can if they try.
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