Analysis Of The Painted Door By Ann Ross

In the short story, The Painted Door, Ross conveys the idea that temptations are guided by personal motives to get what the individual desires. Ann, the main perspective of the short story portrays her desire for a caring, and loving husband. She also demonstrates her feelings toward Steven and how her desire changes throughout the story.
Ann a farmer's wife for seven years has desires and wishes of what her life could be. Her daily routine of doing chores, cooking supper, and quiet nights at home are not enough to her satisfaction anymore. Her isolated life out on the farm continues to make her feel lonely. “ Pay no attention to me. Seven years a farmer’s wife- It’s time i was used to staying alone.” When Ann uses this tone, she is implying to John that she is not happy with her life, and wants more than the life she has now. When John goes away, Steven comes along. Her desire for something new becomes even stronger when Steven appears. “It lit up his lean, still-boyish face with a peculiar kind of arrogance; features and smile that were different from John’s, from other men's.” Anns motivation for an intriguing relationship with her husband was now turned to Steven and she found herself contemplating on what to do next about these new feelings she had.

When Steven showed up and ensured Ann that John would not be coming home, her actions were then changed. Steven continued to reassure Ann that John would not be coming home. “ Blizzards like this one? Up in the hills he wouldn’t be able to keep his direction for a hundred yards. Listen to it a minute and ask yourself.” Steven knew what he wanted out of the night, but Anne continued to ponder her thoughts of John. When Ann finally gives in to Steven she enjoys the time with him. Playing cards, and having conversations with him fills Ann with excitement of something new for