Ariel Dances

by Ethel Cook Eliot

"Ariel Dances" by Ethel Cook Eliot is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the journey of Ariel Clare, a sensitive and introspective young woman, as she navigates her life significantly shaped by her father's recent death. The opening chapters depict Ariel's experiences as she travels from Bermuda to New York, underscoring her feelings of loss, isolation, and her observations of those around her, particularly her father's friends. The opening of the narrative introduces Ariel as a quiet observer on a ship, reflecting on her past and the palpable absence of her father. As she finally arrives in New York, anticipation builds around her reunion with her father's friend, Hugh Weyman. She wrestles with feelings of invisibility amid the busy world around her, capturing her inner turmoil and longing for connection. The chapter progresses as she contemplates her identity and self-worth, all while connecting with other passengers onboard. The narrative is rich in detail, reflecting not only Ariel's personal struggles but also the contrast between her quiet nature and the vibrant lives of those around her.