Assignment Question

We’re told that “Penny was thin and dark and taller, possibly older,” and that “Penny had a bloodless transparent paleness, a touch of blue in her fine lips.” In contrast, we’re told that Primrose “was plump and blond and curly. Primrose had bitten nails, and a velvet collar on her dressy green coat.” Where else do we find important differences, between these two characters? 1. How have their experiences in the forest affected the life of each of these characters? How has each of them dealt with her memory of the event? 2. How might the descriptive differences be reflected in how each girl deals with their strange experience? 3. At the end of the story, have Penny and Primrose resolved any of their questions related to the “thing” in the forest? 4. How might this information help us, in trying to identify themes, in this story?

Answer

Introduction

Ernest Buckler’s short story, “Penny in the Dust,” introduces readers to two central characters, Penny and Primrose, through vivid and contrasting physical descriptions. Penny is described as “thin and dark and taller, possibly older,” with a complexion that hints at a haunting “bloodless transparent paleness” and “a touch of blue in her fine lips” (Buckler). In stark contrast, Primrose is characterized as “plump and blond and curly,” with “bitten nails” and a distinctive “velvet collar on her dressy green coat” (Buckler). These initial descriptions lay the foundation for an exploration of the profound differences between these two characters and the impact of their experiences within the narrative. This essay will delve into these disparities and their implications, addressing how their forest encounter, coping mechanisms, and unresolved questions shape the overarching themes of the story.

Impact of the Forest Experience

One of the most significant disparities between Penny and Primrose is how their respective experiences in the forest have profoundly affected the course of their lives. Penny appears to be deeply haunted by the memory of what transpired among the trees. This haunting is palpable in her pallid and fragile appearance, suggesting that she has been profoundly scarred by the event (Buckler). It’s as though the memory has drained the life from her, leaving her marked by a sense of otherworldly dread. In contrast, Primrose seems less affected, maintaining a plump and cheerful demeanor (Buckler). This striking contrast highlights their distinct coping mechanisms and how they choose to navigate the traumatic memory.

Handling the Strange Experience

The differences in physical descriptions between Penny and Primrose are further reflected in their respective approaches to handling the strange experience in the forest. Penny’s fragility and pallor may symbolize vulnerability and a propensity to dwell on the mystery of the “thing” in the forest, as she seeks answers to the questions it raises (Buckler). She becomes an embodiment of the haunting effect of the unknown, unable to escape the memories. In contrast, Primrose’s plump and cheerful countenance suggests a more pragmatic approach. She appears inclined to put the experience behind her, focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or the enigma of the forest (Buckler). She chooses to shield herself from the eerie shadows of that day, moving forward with resilience.

Unresolved Questions at the Story’s End

As the narrative draws to a close, it remains uncertain whether Penny and Primrose have resolved any of their lingering questions related to the “thing” in the forest. The story leaves readers with an air of ambiguity and unresolved tension, symbolizing the enduring impact of traumatic experiences and the challenge of finding closure (Buckler). This ambiguity adds depth to their characters and the overall narrative. It reflects the complexity of the human condition, wherein some mysteries are never fully unraveled, and the past can continue to cast a shadow over the present. The story’s open-ended conclusion mirrors the unresolved nature of their experiences, lingering like an unanswered question.

Themes Through Character Differences

The distinctions between Penny and Primrose, both in their physical descriptions and their responses to the forest incident, contribute significantly to the overarching themes of the story. These differences underscore the complexity of human emotions and how individuals cope with trauma and the unknown (Buckler). The narrative explores themes such as the enduring consequences of traumatic events, the contrast between inner turmoil and outward appearance, and the inherent ambiguity in unanswered questions. These distinctions between characters enrich the narrative and prompt readers to contemplate the broader themes and meanings of the story. Through the contrasting experiences and characteristics of Penny and Primrose, Ernest Buckler delivers a thought-provoking narrative that explores the enduring impact of mysterious events on the human psyche.

Conclusion

In “Penny in the Dust,” the stark differences between Penny and Primrose, both in their physical descriptions and their responses to the forest incident, contribute significantly to the overarching themes of the story (Buckler). These differences highlight the complexity of human emotions and how individuals cope with trauma and the unknown. The narrative explores themes such as the lasting repercussions of traumatic events, the contrast between inner turmoil and outward appearance, and the ambiguity inherent in unanswered questions. The distinctions between these characters enrich the narrative, inviting readers to reflect on the broader themes and meanings of the story. Through the contrasting experiences and characteristics of Penny and Primrose, Ernest Buckler delivers a thought-provoking narrative that explores the enduring impact of mysterious events on the human psyche.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who are the main characters in “Penny in the Dust,” and how are they described in the story?

A1: The main characters in the story are Penny and Primrose. Penny is described as “thin and dark and taller, possibly older,” with a pale complexion and a hint of blue in her lips. In contrast, Primrose is characterized as “plump and blond and curly,” with bitten nails and a distinctive velvet collar on her dressy green coat.

Q2: What is the significance of the forest experience in the story?

A2: The forest experience serves as a pivotal event that impacts both Penny and Primrose differently. It is a mysterious and traumatic encounter that shapes their characters and influences their subsequent actions and emotions.

Q3: How do Penny and Primrose cope with the traumatic memory of the forest incident?

A3: Penny appears deeply affected by the memory, haunted by it, and unable to move on. Primrose, on the other hand, seems less affected and adopts a pragmatic approach, choosing to put the experience behind her.

Q4: What is the theme of the story, and how do the differences between Penny and Primrose contribute to it?

A4: The story explores themes such as the lasting impact of traumatic events, the contrast between inner turmoil and outward appearance, and the ambiguity of unanswered questions. The differences between Penny and Primrose enrich the narrative and help to illustrate these themes.

Q5: Does the story provide a resolution to the questions related to the “thing” in the forest?

A5: No, the story leaves the questions related to the “thing” in the forest unresolved, adding to the overall ambiguity of the narrative and reflecting the enduring impact of the mysterious event.