Lizzie’s death and Anna’s engagement forced Louisa to return to Concord. Granted Lizzie had fallen ill long before her death, it was not until they moved into Orchard House that Lizzie’s spirit weakened further. After gathering everyone around Lizzie’s bed, with her last work she “drifted into unconsciousness” (236). However, “Louisa saw a shadow fall across the face of her sister… she watched as light mist rose from the body, floated upward, and vanished into the air” (236). The image that left Louisa saw death as beautiful since it acted as “a liberator for Lizzie and a teacher for those left behind” (236). In addition, Louisa “averred that she did not miss Lizzie as much as she had expected” (238). The death of Lizzie did not bring Louisa as much pain as dealing with the departure of the people she loved. …show more content…
The mixed emotion of grief and joyfulness intertwined with loneliness overwhelmed her. Having dealing with the loss of one sister after another and the realization of family pressure was now on her, “her drive and determination abruptly deserted her” (240). Nevertheless, her fail suicidal attempt launched her into a “new beginning by going to church” (241). Also, Bronson soon “realized it was now vital to spend time with her,” did all he could to “tried to lead her back toward the light” (243). As a result, Louisa acknowledged her sister death and Anna’s betrothal had changed her. Louisa believed “the soul of her dead sister was powerfully with her and was giving her the strength she had asked for in her memorial poem” (244). At last, Louisa regained herself as a stronger woman and become an author that celebrated “the sustaining and strengthening power of family