e (72). Ethan seems not to have thought about the effects his death would have on his wife, but this sudden image of his wife suggests that he feels guilty. It is ironic that he uses phrases such as sullen self-absorption and evil energy to describe his wife (50). Yet, she is the last person he imagines before he reaches the elm. This moment is one last time that he must brush her aside, as he attempts to break free from Zeena forever.When Mattie is to be sent away, Ethan and Mattie grow desperate looking for a way out of their impossible situation. They decide that it is better to die in a sledding accident together than live their lives apart. Ethan hesitates slightly, But in a flash he remembered the alternative. She was right: this was better than parting (72). Ultimately, they both survive the crash, though both have permanent injuries. Mattie is confined to a wheelchair, and Zeena helps care for her. Ironically, the crash they intended to end their lives only makes their lives worse. Mattie returns to live with Zeena and Ethan in a cold household. Ethan becomes the primary caretaker of the two women, who continue to cause suffering in his life. Mrs. Hale says, But sometimes the two of them get going at each other, and then Ethans faced break your heart.When I see that, I think its him that suffers most (76). After the accident, the Frome household is caught in a living death, rather than released from its tensions.The tragic aspects of the novel are further emphasized by the use of irony. Rather than simply writing the unfortunate episodes of the story, Wharton reminds the reader that these situations have the capability of producing favorable results. This contrast between the possibility of a good ending and the resulting tragedy creates the illusion of an even greater tragedy....
