Spring is a season generally known for its many re-births.
Flowers bloom, birds come back from migration, we picture nests, nature at its most
active, and the air is fresh as the cold of winter still leaves behind a hint of
coolness while the sun warms us up. All these are emotions that entice belonging,
comfort, happiness and, most of all, newness and
freedom.
All these elements are taking place at the time
that Mrs. Mallard receives the news of her husband's death. Just like a flower in the
Spring, Mrs. Mallard finally opens up to the reality of her life: She has re-born into
herself. She feels free from what seems to be a marriage that was less than
satisfactory. She blooms out in joy, awaiting what will happen next now that she, for
the first time, will be a free woman. Although she is shocked at her reaction, it seems
like it was a long time coming. Hence, both the season and Mrs. Mallard have one very
important characteristic in common: They are both starting
over.
However, we know that the story ends when Mrs.
Mallard dies in a shock when her husband arrives and we learn that he was not in the
accident they all thought he was involved in. This is when her new world comes crashing
down in less than one hour. Therefore, although the world outside continues to enjoy the
season, Mrs. Mallard's re-birth came both too early, and too late in her
life.
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