Fringe of Leaves

Throughout these three passages is the progression of Ellen Roxburgh, from the civilized to the primitive with Paul White expressing his opinion on the need for a compromise between both these extremes. White also repeatedly demolishes typical stereotypes of black and white society, exploring the faults and benefits of both. Sensuality is another theme encountered within ‘ A Fridge of Leaves’, while White disagrees with its oppression, neither does he idealize it. White puts emphasis on his rejection of idealized representations, he prefers to work in the more realistic shade of gray rather than plain black and white.

To Ellen white society is a “settlement in which it seemed at times she might remain permanently imprisoned.” She is very conscious of the restrictive nature of this society and senses within herself a need to escape even for a short amount of time. Thus readers get the impression that Ellen is oppressing part of her true persona and only when she is alone with...