Blog Post 3

Quote 

"yes

I held the point of the knife at her throat

it wont take but a second Ill try not to hurt

all right

will you close your eyes

no like this youll have to push it harder

touch your hand to it

but she didnt move her eyes were wide open looking past my head at the sky

Caddy, do you remember how Dilsey fussed at you because your drawers were muddy

dont cry

Im not crying Caddy"

page 152

In this passage, the narrator (Quentin's) use of little syntax and a stream-of-consciousness delivery show how incredibly painful this memory is for him. This particular memory of him wishing to die with Caddy is confusing, as she agrees to Quentin's desire for a "pure" double-suicide, but seems to know he will not go through with it, and lets the experience be more of a catharsis for Quentin, even if those actions are not on purpose on Caddy's part. This experience also shows Quentin's constant reference to Caddy's sexual experiences and his horror at the fact that his sister has sexuality. Though it is selfish in a way, Quentin is one of the few redeeming qualities of the Compson family, showing honest care for Caddy through his insanity, and honest care for Benjamin through his guilt of selling his field in vain.