Although we all strive to obtain the best in life, we quickly learn that there is much more to life than just filling an empty void with luxuries. This is the prime theme in the narrative poem titled "Pathedy of Manners" by Ellen Kay. Kay uses strong imagery to describe this woman's superb lifestyle and the change of winds that occur as time passes. The woman in this story appears to be everyone's envy, however we quickly learn that perception is not always reality. Material things simply cannot fulfill and empty void of one's life.

The poem begins with the author describing this perfect woman. As she goes on to say in line one, "At twenty she was brilliant and adored." The soft choice of words Kay choose create an instant connection between the reader and the woman. We are instantly engrossed in this woman...