Book 1 Chapters 4-6

This forum is for the discussion of The House of Mirth, Book 1, Chapters 4-6.

Book 1 Chapters 4-6:

Lily has deeper feelings for Seldon but just can't seem to get past his lack of money. She has convinced herself that she can have Mr. Gryce and his money when she chooses. We can't help but hope she follows her heart with Seldon and finds happiness, but we know that she will not.

The funny thing is she realized that she needs to marry for money and happiness migyht not be in the agreement. Many of the other characters in the other classics are oblivious to that fact. I think Lily is in tune with the social rules and feels she needs to follow them.

Lilly will not allow herself to consider a life not in keeping with the friends she so envies. She knows she will lead a boring life with Grice but doesn't see any other prospects who can afford her desired style of living. She is hoping to feel the void of an unloving marriage to Grice with all of the things he will be able and hopefully in her mind want to give to her.
there are many subtexts of 'manners' that are relayed in the general goings on of her friends at the house party which are interesting. Lilly is a master of all these nuances.