When the kids get smacked.

Page 83... "Not seldom, she would laugh anew, and louder than before, like a thing incapable, and unintelligent of human sorrow" This quote reminds me not only of the rather strange emotional habits of Pearl, but also draws me towards the fact that Pearl is a personification of the guilt laid upon Hester. Hester can do nothing but watch as the devilish imp sets itself upon breaking free of its master. But i cant blame the little punk! i too would be furious, born into a bastard life, sure your mom wants to deal with her sins by remaining in this town of religious fruitcakes, but is it even fair to have her daughter grow up as a total alien to any kind of social life? The kid talks to trees for god's sake, and the other children believe her to be a witch! is that any way to raise a child? I want to grasp Hester by a tuft of hair, and while shaking her violently, scream into her ear canal " It is no longer about your desire to look good in this community! Your daughter has her whole life ahead of her, put it behind you or you will later regret stripping Pearl of her childhood!"