The Grass is Singing

Mary and Dick Turner drive to his farm. They drive all night from the city, with Mary wondering what awaits her. She tries to tell herself to accept whatever comes, but finds herself speechless when they arrive at the farm in the dead of night. She notes how dark it is, and how menacing the night seems with the trees and bush around the squat house. Following Dick inside, she finds it no better than the outside, disliking the smell of animal and paraffin in the small house. She sees the animal furs in the living room and notes how the furniture is crudely made, all of which Dick takes pride in. She tries to put on a good front for Dick. She can tell that he is uncertain if she likes the place or not. When he begins talking again about the farm, she interrupts him, realizing that she has been rude, and suggests that they go into the bedroom. Inside she finds a new bed, and the two set about consummating their marriage. Though Mary does not like the house, or her new husband for that matter, she still feels a tenderness for him.