Chapters X-XII
Forgiveness is the central message of this section. Lily, having separated herself from the pressured social circle, chooses to forgive grudges against her social enemies. Even Bertha Dorset benefits from her lightened mood as Lily decides not to use the letters against her. She also moves to forgive her investor Trenor for spreading news of her financial success, which she feels is a personal success that reveals her independence. But, after this initial free feeling, Lily is confronted by Trenor who insinuates that she "owes" him something for initiating her investments. Trenor's own words paint a clear image of his ugly manipulations as he proposes an evening meeting with Lily, "But why can't we go off somewhere on a little lark together - a nice quiet little expedition like that drive at the Bellmont..." (Wharton, 123). Here lies a perfect example of the equality struggle that exists still today between men and women. Had Lily been a man, Trenor would never dare to ask for favors in return for a business investment. Why does business between two men carry different weight than that between a man and woman? A power struggle exists as women climb the ladders created by men, hitting the glass ceilings also created by men who have quite possibly read this book and found it socially acceptable to treat business dealings differently dependent on whether or not their client is wearing heels.
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