Status Updates From Brooklyn

The Nylon is extremely popular in the store, pulling Eilis all day into the work. This is one difference between Brooklyn and her home in Ireland: the population. On the other hand, when Eilis presents the pair of stockings to Mrs. Kehoe, the old woman doesn’t seem to understand that it’s a gift and is willing to pay for it. I think that’s because it’s too costly in her view, or a difference of mindset between them.

UGH!

I am surprised about how even the employees at the store where Elish works do not know about the Nylon stocking sale. There should be at least some info given to the employees about it so they could prepare for the cause the night before. I am happy for Eilis as she got into Brooklyn College night classes. I believe that this should keep her occupied during the week. Lastly, I hope that Eilis's family is doing well.

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.