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Butterflies In Willa Cather's O Pioneers

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Butterflies and moths can be interpreted as a lot more than beautiful, flying insects. In O Pioneers these insects are mostly shown as being white in color, this color can be understood in many different ways. Willa Cather uses moths and butterflies many times throughout her novel. There are several legends and beliefs that show how the butterfly is a spiritual being, that represents humans. She uses them as a way to compare the characters to the insects. Throughout O Pioneers white butterflies and moths are always found fluttering about the alfalfa fields, which is in the proximity of where Marie and Emil were murdered. Whenever these insects mentioned in a chapter with the alfalfa fields, the field is described as appearing white in color. …show more content…

Just like the butterflies lifecycle characters in the novel also go through changes. Marie used to think she was happy with Frank, but later realized that she wasn't happy with him. She changed the way she felt about him. Marie later went on to realize her true feelings were with Emil. When Marie was with Frank she was older, and just like when a butterfly is trapped in its cocoon, she was trapped with Frank and couldn't leave him. Marie finally got away from Frank for a little bit, but her getting away led to her death. While walking outside, Marie is depicted as a moth making its way out of the fields. Since a moth's message is to listen to your inner voice this might be saying that Marie needs to listen to her's. Marie's inner voice is telling her that she needs to be with Emil. She is hiding from her true self by staying with Frank, and she should get away to be with Emil. The butterfly reminds people that life is short and to enjoy it while they can. Just like the butterfly Marie and Emil had a short life. Before they were together, they constantly fought themselves from being with each other. As soon as they got together they were able to enjoy life. Cather used the two white butterflies at the of O Pioneers to represent Emil and Marie after they died. It shows that they can finally be happy together without any worries. Marie and Emil don't have to fears about anybody seeing them together, they can now be together

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