Choices! Every human being has to make choices. One must be able to outweigh all factors that are to determine what is best for them. In the short story, "Eveline", written by James Joyce, the reader is introduced to the life of a young woman torn between duty and desire, the known and unknown. .
The main character, Eveline, has to decide if she should seize the opportunity to escape with Frank to Buenos Ayres in search of a new life, or uphold her promise to her deceased mother of keeping the home together for as long as she can. Hindered by her father's selfish and self-centered ways, Eveline is torn between the anguish of leaving home, her strong duties to her family, and the promise-filled "new life" she is bound to have. She stands fearful and paralyzed when forced to make a decision which is ultimately the decision of choosing the life that is best for her.
For most of her life, Eveline has been the backbone of her home. She dusts day after day, keeping the house together to the best of her ability. Like dust, she is suffocated by her roles and duties in the household. Not only does she fulfill her working capacity by cooking, cleaning, shopping, but she also keeps her promise to her deceased mother. .
Days before her death, Eveline promised to her to "keep the home together as long as she could" (Joyce 6).Keeping this in mind, Eveline cares for her two younger brothers that had been left to her responsibility. Everyday she makes sure her younger brothers go to school and eat their meals. On top of it all, she also takes care of her father. Her father is a drunk who would threaten Eveline and even put her down. He takes her constant work around the house for granted with no thanks to illustrate his appreciation. Her commitment to her responsibilities is what makes her hesitant to live her life the way she pleases to.
On the account that she considers her vow to keep her family united as consecrated, she debates whether leaving her home is worth it or not.