Fever 1793

The question is in the details

The novel ends with these closing lines: "The yellow sun rose, a giant balloon filled with prayers and hopes and promise. I stood and shook the idleness out of my skirts. Daywasbegun"(243). Whatemotiondoesthisfinalimageevokeinthereader? Why do you think Laurie Halse Anderson chose to end the novel with this image? Think about the symbols mentioned here and how they connect to their mention at the beginning of the novel, now that the yellow fever epidemic is over.

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This is only a short answer space but I can make a general comment. Mattie mentally compares the rising sun to Blanchard's yellow balloon. Just as the balloon had symbolized a new era in the development of the city and nation, the rising sun marks the beginning of a new day, which will be met with newfound enthusiasm. Mattie has fully matured into a woman capable of operating her own business and managing her own household. She has an adopted child, cares for her frail mother, has forged solid friendships and business acquaintances, and has a serious suitor. For Mattie, the future is indeed beckoning.