Meaning: This quote comes from Kate Chopin's novel "The Awakening," which was published in 1899. The protagonist of the novel, Edna Pontellier, experiences a personal awakening and liberation from the societal expectations and constraints placed upon her as a woman in late 19th-century America. The quote reflects Edna's feelings of suffocation and oppression within the traditional constructs of society.

In the novel, Edna grapples with her role as a wife and mother and the limitations placed on her by the expectations of her husband, children, and the society in which she lives. The "procession" mentioned in the quote symbolizes the structured and restrictive nature of societal norms and expectations, which Edna feels are oppressive and stifling. She describes feeling the "crushing feet, the clashing discords, the ruthless hands, and stifling breath" within the procession, highlighting the overwhelming and suffocating nature of the societal pressures she experiences.

The imagery of "crushing feet" and "clashing discords" suggests the chaotic and discordant nature of the societal expectations that weigh heavily upon her. The "ruthless hands and stifling breath" further emphasize the sense of oppression and confinement that Edna feels within the confines of societal norms. The reference to not being able to "hear the rhythm of the march" indicates Edna's inability to find harmony or meaning within the confines of the traditional roles and expectations placed upon her.

Throughout the novel, Edna seeks to break free from these constraints and explore her own identity and desires. She begins to question the societal norms and expectations that have confined her, and she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal liberation. Her awakening leads her to challenge the traditional roles of wife and mother and to seek independence and fulfillment outside of the confines of societal expectations.

Kate Chopin's exploration of Edna's inner turmoil and her struggle against societal constraints was groundbreaking for its time. "The Awakening" was considered controversial when it was first published, as it challenged the prevailing attitudes towards women's roles and sparked discussions about gender, identity, and autonomy. The quote encapsulates the essence of Edna's internal conflict and her desire to break free from the oppressive forces that surround her.

Chopin's portrayal of Edna's journey serves as a powerful critique of the limitations placed upon women in the late 19th century and continues to resonate with readers today. The quote captures the universal theme of individual struggle against societal expectations and the quest for personal freedom and self-expression. It reflects the enduring relevance of Chopin's work in its exploration of the complexities of human experience and the desire for autonomy and self-determination.

In conclusion, Kate Chopin's quote from "The Awakening" encapsulates the protagonist's feelings of suffocation and oppression within the societal constraints of late 19th-century America. The quote serves as a powerful expression of the internal conflict and desire for liberation experienced by the novel's protagonist, Edna Pontellier. Chopin's exploration of Edna's struggle against societal expectations continues to resonate with readers, making "The Awakening" a timeless and thought-provoking work of literature.