and reveals "Sometimes I feel this summer as if I were walking through the green meadow again. Idly, aimlessly, unthinking, and unguided" (30). Edna's recollection of this event allows her to more clearly recognize her internal turmoil. The link between Edna's awakening and the ocean becomes even clearer when after several attempts she finally learns to swim. The first time she ventures out into the ocean alone is the first step toward her independence. She panics when she realizes how far she has gone alone and fears drowning. This incident represents Edna gaining control over her body and becoming more aware of her full potential. The ocean helps her recognize that her body is her own and she awakens to her physical, mental, and emotional capabilities. "But that night she was like the little tottering, stumbling, clutching child, who of a sudden realizes its powers, and walks for the first time alone, boldly and with overconfidence." (47). Edna's sudden terror in the middle of the ocean signifies that she may not be able to venture out as far as she wants to and may have to turn back. "She wanted to swim far out, where no woman had swum beforeA quick vision of death smote her soul, and for a second of time appalled and enfeebled her senses" (48). Much like her adventure in the Kentucky bluegrass meadow Edna is perplexed by her feelings. A mixture of pride, fear, and uncertainty engulfs her. Robert leaving Edna with "Good-by-because I love you" (185) opens Edna's eyes to the fact that she is still not entirely her own person. Mr. Pontellier and society still have control over many of Edna's decisions and much of her life. When Edna decides to claim her life she is asserting that her life is hers to have and to destroy. She wants to prove to everyone including herself that she is her own person and can choose her own fate. It is now that the ocean plays the biggest part in Edna's awakening. "T...
