Jane Austen discussion

An excerpt from Celestial Persuasion, a Jewish Austen Fan Fiction (JAFF).

He crossed the upper deck and descended the companionway before briefly saluting the marine sentry posted at his door. Cursing, he threw his hat across the room and roughly removed his coat. Normally controlled and reserved, the captain allowed himself a moment to release his frustration. Truth be told, he was more than frustrated. He was angry. Angry with Captain Lawrence for his flagrant abuse of power. Angry with the Admiralty for turning a blind eye to rogue and lawless officers. Angry with the helpless situations in which young women found themselves when their menfolk’s choices went awry. He could not help himself and thought of Anne. Would the pain ever subside? Would he be able to set aside the rejection and rally again?

Throwing himself into his chair, uncharacteristically without ceremony or care, Captain Wentworth grimaced at the task before him. He must write to Isaacs’s sister. He—of all men—would have to lay out a new trajectory for her and pray she would comply with the plans he proposed. The captain reached for a nearby bottle of spirits and poured the amber liquid into a crystal glass. He swilled the contents down in one gulp, feeling only the burning sensation as it glided down his throat. The feeling was welcome. Considering what was required of him now left a worse taste in his mouth than the fiery rum. Captain Wentworth could not deny that he was now in the position of having to persuade a young lady to alter the course of her life. Of all things, he despised the thought of manipulating someone by playing on their respect for his rank and command. And again he thought of Anne. She too had been young and naïve in the ways of the world and had allowed someone she trusted to guide her. To guide her in such a way as to lead her away from him.

With Jane Austen you do not get a lot of insight into the minds of the men other when they write letters. Is it harder or easier to develop their inner thoughts? You have less to go on, but you also have more freedom.

Jan wrote: "With Jane Austen you do not get a lot of insight into the minds of the men other when they write letters. Is it harder or easier to develop their inner thoughts? You have less to go on, but you als..."

Interesting point! Thanks Jan. I had formulated on opinion of Frederick Wentworth's character based on how Austen presented him to us. The captain was hurt and resentful, somewhat bitter and sardonic. But, Anne Elliot had loved. Loved him still. The full measure of the man had to take that into consideration. Anne wouldn't have come to admire and respect someone who wasn't capable of matching her own good qualities.

I used that information to develop the character of Captain Wentworth in "Celestial Persuasion." Frederick's heart had been broken, but he was a good friend, a loving brother, and an admirable leader. I enjoyed delving into his thoughts—I hope my readers do too!

I've read that you never see a scene in Austen's novels in which no woman is present - ie, she never depicts men alone with other men.

Bu I'm not sure if that is true?

As you say, we are given a bit of a glimpse into Wentworth's feelings, helped by his sister's comments as well I think.