Question

state why the title of the poem "the last leaf" is appropriate

Answer 1

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The last ivy leaf us the central point of the story. Initially the last leaf is associated with Johnsy's ailment and gloom. But later on it conveys the message of courage, hope and optimism. The last leaf, a symbol of despair, turns into a symbol of hope. Johnsy believes that the ivy leaves stand for her life slowly ebbing away. When the leaf remains it becomes a symbol of hope for her. If the leaf could brave two storms and survive, she too could successfully put up with her ailment and her gloom. The last leaf saves Johnsy's life and fulfils Behrman's lifelong dream of painting a masterpiece. It also, ironically turns out to be the 'last' and only masterpiece. Therefore the title is an appropriate one.

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