There is always the hope that perhaps one day we can escape away from our problems and be free for once. Eveline's story from James Joyce's Dubliners conveys the disadvantage of holding on to the past when seeking a better future. Eveline is a young woman thinking of a new life away from an abusive father and an unfortunate life. In the story, Eveline plans to go away with Frank to Buenos Ayres, but Eveline fails to join him as she remembers the promises she made to her mother. Joyce uses foreshadowing and symbolism to show how holding on to the past makes it impossible for someone to move forward. Eveline gives hints throughout the story about her final decision to live in Argentina. Eveline begins by remembering the positive moments of childhood, but returns to the present and realizes how miserable her life is. Her father was always violent with her, even if she worked hard for a couple of shillings. When Eveline decides to run away, positive memories begin to arise. She begins to remember her father caring for her, the promise he made to her mother, and the fear of leaving the place she calls home. Eveline feels relieved to leave her miserable life, but the next moment she begins to worry about leaving her father alone in his old age: “Her father was getting old lately, she noticed; he would miss her. Sometimes he could be very kind. Here we have an example where he starts second guessing his decision. He begins to worry about the rest and forgets about what he really wants. Eveline seems to purge unwanted memories and hold on to the more pleasant and thoughtful ones that her father gave her and begins to worry what other people would do without her. Aside from pity towards... middle of paper... she is not afraid of Frank, nor does she think he will drown her, but rather fears the idea of ​​a new life in an unknown world. The symbols in Eveline allow the reader to know why Eveline does not want to leave her home due to the positive memory and fear of what to expect from the new life. Eveline's story shows the need to escape in the hope of a better life. future, but instead of the perfect "forever" ending, Eveline decides to stay in the place she knows as home. Joyce conveys Eveline's emotions and the reason for her decision through the use of foreshadowing and symbolism. Even though Eveline had more than enough reasons to run away, she didn't have the necessary courage or sufficient excuses. It is not clear what the main reason for his decision was, but it is certain that it is not a solid reason, but rather a mixture of ideas.