The Scarlet Letter Chapters 5-8

Many of my classmates have grown accustomed to Hawthorne's language, but I still find that the chapters take a while to read. Beautiful as they may be, I constantly become bored with Hawthorne's descriptions. We discussed earlier in class how Hawthorne often times over emphasizes important points because he is afraid the reader might not take notice to it. Now after reading a few chapters, this has become even more apparent, and sometimes I wish Hawthorne would just move on. Aside from the writing style, in these chapters I especially payed attention to Hester's daughter, Pearl. Hester is now the embodiment of sin in puritan society as seen when Hawthorne writes, "Thus the young and the pure would be taught to look at her, with the scarlet letter flaming on her breast,-at her, the child of honorable parents,-at her, the mother of a babe that would hereafter be a woman,- at her, who had once been innocent,-as the figure, the body, the reality of sin" (Hawthorne 73). Pearl, being the product of Hester's sin, is an interesting element in the novel. Hester named her daughter Pearl because she is the only treasure in Hester's life. She gave up everything to receive her daughter. Later in chapter 8, Pearl tells Mr. Wilson that she, "had been plucked by her mother off the bush of wild roses that grew by the prison-door" (Hawthorne 102). Pearl is growing to be quite beautiful and is beginning to symbolize Hester's love. However, Pearl is also a constant reminder of Hester's sin. On various occasions she reaches for the scarlet letter or points to it in a reflection. Overall, Pearl is a symbol that serves to represent both sides of Hester's sin.
Hester goes to the Governor's house to deliver gloves that she made, but in reality, it is an opportunity for Hester to confront the Governor about the rumors regarding taking Pearl away from her. The Governor's home is surprisingly exquisite as opposed to the regular bland taste of a Puritan's lifestyle.  The furniture, most of which are heirlooms from the Governor's paternal home, are fancy. In chapter 8, Governor Bellingham, "appeared to be showing off his estate, and expatiating on his projected improvements" (Hawthorne 98). My impression of Governor Bellingham is that he is less of a religious man and more of a wealthy leader.

I am hesitant to post this, but when Pearl creepily said, "I have no Heavenly Father!" I thought of this song. This song would relate more to Pearl's negative symbolism that serves as a constant reminder of Hester's sin. The song is called Lilith by Varien. Lilith is the Grim Reaper's daughter.