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In contrast to the freedom of the boat, Joyce juxtaposes the inside of the house with the dust that is mounting up, the familiar objects and the yellowing photograph. Although her brothers are not there physically with her, the letter to Harry says he is near to her heart. Similarly, he uses water as a means of rejuvenation, as well as a threat of drowning her and letting her see what she loses through her fear and lack of courage. By not plunging into those "seas of the world that tumble[d] about her heart" Eveline gives up escape, renewed life and possible love for the past, duty, and a stale life.

The whole concept of duty to her family and to God is contained in this brief story, as well. She in fact prays to God and he responds to her with a mournful sound: "She felt her cheek...
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