Diary
The diary as an image is very significant here. The life of Mr. Gilbert Markham is presented through the use of a diary. Another diary of Mrs. Graham reveals her true identity. Her real name is Mrs. Huntingdon. It also discovers the reason why she has to live as a tenant. She can’t have a relationship because she is already married with Mr. Huntingdon. The diary paints a beautiful picture of their lives. In fact, the story is written in epistolary format.
Trees and flowers
Trees and flowers are used to show the inferiority of women. All female characters are flowers. Arthur even mentions Helen as ‘dewy Rose’, Annabella as ‘Peony’. Even there is a reference of Helen’s mothering of Little Arthur which is very gentle like a gardener. It has been said that an Oak tree should not be rear in ‘hothouse’ rather ‘exposed to all action of the element and not even sheltered from shock to the tempest’ to ‘become a hardy tree’. Every life is compared with trees and females with flowers.
Painting
Helen’s painting is the image of her life; it reflects her maturity and only medium of her escape. She painted a sketch of Arthur Huntingdon at the age of 18. Later, at a mature age she paints landscape which reveals her inner self. It is very interesting to mention about her painting of the “bare trees” which represents her suffering and struggle as a woman.
Nature and the natural landscape
Helen as a painter paints landscapes. Even Gilbert is also a farmer. Nature represents their relationship. Natural beauty of May Day helps to build their romantic relationship on their visit to the seaside. On a snowy and cold day, Gilbert rides to rescue Helen from marrying W. Hargrave; here also, nature acts as important imagery.
