HT: Analysis

In the context of Hard Times, as well as harvesting terminology, to garner can be defined as reaping the benefits of a given action.  Although the third book essentially illustrates the outcomes due to societal systems, there are noted "benefits" that can be found in character growth.  At the beginning of book three when Louisa is recouperating from her trauma due to the realization of her upbringing, she finds comfort and relationship bonding though Sissy, "In the innocence of her brave affection, and the brimming up of her old devoted spirit, the once deserted girl shone like a beautiful light upon the darkness of the other. Louisa raised the hand that it might clasp her neck and join its fellow there. She fell upon her knees, and clinging to this stroller's child looked up at her almost with veneration. 'Forgive me, pity me, help me! Have compassion on my great need, and let me lay this head of mine upon a loving heart?' 'O lay it here!' cried Sissy. 'Lay it here, my dear." (220).  Although Louisa is clearly distressed, she is finally able to express her true emotions and relay them to another human truthfully.  Sissy provides love and compassion for Louisa.  This type of character development can be attributed to the title, "Garnering", because it is showing the effects of the societal systems and the way in which characters progress.