Status Updates From Bruklinas

One thing that struck me was how little involved Ellis was in deciding to go on her journey to America, she barely spoke at dinner and her sister Rose did all the paperwork + logistics almost like the decision was made from the start. Her passivity almost makes her seem like a child. I would guess Tobin does this to set the groundwork for Ellis' character arc, which to be a coming-of-age novel, must be ground zero.

At the start of the book, I feel like Eilis is very fortunate, having received so much help from around, which enables her to settle down in Brooklyn conveniently. Between chapters, Toibin doesn’t directly show how Eilis felt when she first arrived, but when she commutes from her apartment to work after 3 weeks. I think Toibin wants to make a contrast and combine her first feeling and her understanding.

I don't understand how Eilis never actually says she wants to stay in Ireland, even when every part of her inner life is screaming and desiring for it. She keeps moving fast through scenes, the dance hall, Miss Kelly’s shop, the family table, like someone who’s waiting for permission to speak that never comes. It’s not that she agrees to leave; it’s that she can’t imagine refusing.

I feel bad for Elish as she cannot stop vomiting in the back of the boat. If I were in her position, I would go and find help, as it scares me to be in the back of the boat with no one to help. I am happy that Georgia was able to find her and help Elish, as it seems Georgia has a lot of experience traveling by boat. Lastly, I really hope that Elish finds her new home in Brooklyn.