Young at Heart

"Miss Brill" by Katherine Mansfield

In this short story, protagonist Miss Brill depicts a lively old French lady who loves to visit the park on Sundays to listen to the band, observe people, and eavesdrop on conversations.  During the first half of the story, Brill fails to understand the melancholy attitudes of the elderly who like they come from "dark little rooms--even cupboards", but exudes happiness as she observes the young park visitors reveling in life (Mansfield 184).  Living vicariously through her observations, Brill feels like she's part of something bigger, like she belongs.  Eventually, she perceives herself to be in a play, with all of her fellow park guests helping to comprise the cast each and every Sunday.  In describing this unique sensation, Brill embodies the stereotypical lovable, old grandma who thrives on the smallest semblances of affection and companionship.  Being in this social play at the park gives her a sense of belonging.  Playing this role, Brill brings a light-hearted, emotional tone to the story, encouraging the reader to connect with her.  This emotional connection with Brill amplifies all sentiments felt during the story's conclusion.  After Brill concludes her joyful discourse at feeling like an actress in a play, she begins to eavesdrop on a couple of young lovebirds.  Much to Brill's chagrin, the couple mocks her, calling her a "stupid old thing" and questioning why she even comes to the park (Mansfield 186).  As a result, an emotionally wounded Brill retires to a "little dark room" of her own and adopts the melancholy attitude of the elderly people she could not understand in the beginning of the story (Mansfield 186).  She loses all sense of belonging and purpose, becomes alienated, and wallows alone in her depression.