Journal #2

          Another feature that makes the novel so compelling is the array of unforgettable characters portrayed throughout the novel. However, there is one character that sticks to the reader to the end. There is something very mythical and enchanting about MacDonald’s portrayal of Lily. In fact, Lily Piper forms the heart of the novel. Lily, being the youngest of the Piper sisters, is a mystery to the others and to the reader. Lily is loved by her whole family. For instance, James states, “That only makes her more precious to me” (188). She is the delicate rose to her father, and becomes Daddy’s favourite after Kathleen dies. An example of James’s affection towards Lily is when “James struck Lily’s sweet head and she caressed Daddy’s hand with her cheek” (188). Moreover, Lily’s innocence, love, and genuineness towards others draws the reader closer to her. For instance, when Frances was predicting her own death Lily states, “Frances, I don’t want you to be an alcoholic, I don’t want to lose you” (184). She is very concerned about others and takes things very emotionally. As well, Lily also brings humour into the reading. This makes the novel so much more interesting and fun to read. Lily takes everything very seriously, even when Frances tells her the most ridiculous things. This is revealed when Frances makes up a story to tell how an orange cat kills Lily’s other twin. “…It put its mouth over Ambrose’s face and sucked the breath out of him. He turned blue and died” (205). Lily was shocked and couldn’t believe yet. “Lily doesn’t move a muscle” (205). Frances’ manipulative skills persuade Lily into believing here flawed stories. In addition, Lily has a supernatural “gift” where individuals think she’s a saint. “Mercedes loves me because I’m special to God” (377). She can predict things in the future and has telepathy, where she can read other people’s minds. This is proven when Lily tells Mercedes what is happening to Frances, and thus locates where she is. “She has a beat up face, but the man didn’t do it,” (278) or when she says, “Ambrose says not to worry. It’s not a bad man she’s with” (377). Furthermore, Lily brings inspiration to others and even to the reader. Lily is crippled, but that doesn’t stop her from watching over her family and being constantly active. She states, “her bad leg is special because it’s so strong” (377). This optimism is another bright quality that’s always present in Lily. As a result, Lily is very special because her destiny remains a mystery throughout the novel. The reader is immediately attracted and drawn to such a rich deep character that forms the heart of the novel.