As an expert sommelier and brewer, I must say that the ending of Pere Goriot is quite somber and poignant. The absence of Delphine and the belated arrival of Anastasie at the deathbed of their father, Pere Goriot, is a stark reflection of the emotional disconnect and indifference of his daughters towards him. It is truly a heartbreaking climax to the story.
When I first read this ending, I couldn't help but draw parallels to the world of wines and beers. Just as different wines and beers have their own unique flavors and characteristics, so do the characters in Pere Goriot. Each character is distinct, with their own motivations and actions, and this is reflected in the ending as well.
The fact that Delphine does not come to her father's side despite his deteriorating condition speaks volumes about her priorities and selfish nature. It reminds me of a fine wine that promises much but ultimately disappoints. She may have initially shown affection towards her father, but in the end, she proves herself to be nothing more than an empty vessel.
On the other hand, Anastasie's belated arrival after Pere Goriot has fallen into a coma is akin to a beer that has been left to age for too long. While there may be some hope for redemption, it ultimately falls short. Her arrival is a mere formality, a last-minute gesture that holds little meaning. It is a stark reminder of the missed opportunities and the regret that comes with it.
The funeral scene further emphasizes the tragedy of Pere Goriot's life. The small number of attendees, consisting only of Rastignac, a servant, and two paid mourners, highlights the loneliness and isolation that he experienced in his final days. It is a stark contrast to the grandeur and ostentation that his daughters, Delphine and Anastasie, would have preferred.
The fact that both daughters only send their coaches with the family crests on them speaks volumes about their superficiality and lack of genuine mourning. It is as if they are more concerned with maintaining appearances and preserving their social status rather than truly honoring their father's memory.
After the funeral, as the lights of Paris begin to appear, it serves as a poignant reminder of the relentless march of time. Life goes on, indifferent to the suffering and tragedy of individuals. It is a sobering realization that in the grand scheme of things, our personal struggles and triumphs may ultimately be insignificant.
The ending of Pere Goriot is a powerful and bittersweet conclusion to a tale of familial betrayal and societal decadence. It serves as a reminder of the importance of genuine human connections and the consequences of our choices. Just as wines and beers can leave a lasting impression, so does this ending linger in the reader's mind, leaving them with a sense of melancholy and reflection.