Reading New Moon: Chapter 4 (Waking Up)
July 23rd, 2008 by Kaleb Nation
The song for this chapter is Where’d You Go by Fort Minor
Somehow, I have gotten hooked by New Moon within the first few chapters. When I should be working to cure my editingosis I am actually reading this book and wondering: have Edward and Bella really parted ways for good?
Time passes: the first two words of this chapter seem brutal and sharp in contrast to the flowing paragraphs Stephenie has written before. The thoroughness of Edward’s disappearance has left Bella’s life in that state. There isn’t a trace that he was ever there, as if all that happened in Twilight and in the first three chapters of New Moon were just something that Bella imagined. After paging through the months, I am reminded of the way Bella was at one time, in the beginning of Twilight. It is like taking a time machine. I remember this Bella: sullen, quiet, just as she was before Edward.
With the months that have passed, however, it feels like the pain of Edward leaving has turned into a numbness. It’s like a constant ache to Bella that is so strong eventually she might forget about it being there.
I shuddered when Bella pulls out that calculus book. What a misery. I’m taking calculus this next semester, and being one who absolutely abhors all things involving the mathematics (besides adding royalties and paychecks), I nearly fainted flat when I discovered I have two courses of it. Oh joy (oh rottenness). Bella sums up my thoughts exactly:
Reading math was even worse than listening to it.
For some reason, when Bella asked Jessica who she had recently been out with, my eyes swept across the page, and I thought that Jessica had said she was out with a Yankie, instead of Eric Yorkie. Weird. Then, lo and behold, they head on off to get some food, passing by One-Eyed Pete’s:
The struggle that Bella goes through to get over Edward seems torturous. While she knows she will never get over him completely, the only way she can move on with her life is to move past what is gone, and leave the memories of Edward behind.
But at the same time, I see that Bella is holding onto Edward still. Her memories of them together were so strong that I find myself remembering parts of it as well. It is rather concerning when you think about the condition Bella has been left in. She is withdrawn and antisocial, and now she is seeing things that are not there and hearing voices in her head.
Because the books are so popular, I’ve been slightly spoilered already, and I know that somewhere along the lines, Jacob Black becomes important (apologies if I’ve been spoiled wrong and I’m incorrect). So I would really like to hear from those Jacob-lovers if Bella’s intense withdrawal from Edward is one of the reasons you think Jacob is better for her? Do you think she is too obsessively attached to Edward for the relationship to ever be good for her?
It seems to me that by the end of this chapter, Bella is already doing much better than she was before- though I can still feel that glimmer of hope that Edward will return, and that things will go back to how they were before. But simply getting out and doing something appears to have brightened Bella future somewhat. I guess there is something fulfilling in zombie films after all… 
——NOTES——
- Again, I cannot reply to emails suggesting songs for New Moon. Please only submit them through the page linked in the right sidebar.
- Last week, I hit 1,500 subscribers on my Youtube! THANKS SO MUCH EVERYONE! I am currently #17 most subscribed this week in Partners, which was my first Youtube award, so if you haven’t already, please subscribe so I can stay up there!
- Someone asked to see a photo of my writing notebooks- it’s on my other blog.
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July 23rd, 2008 at 12:08 am
Good job getting through to the next chapter. Personally, I didn’t like the book without Edward. It just wasn’t the same. Keep Reading Kaleb, you’re doing great!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:11 am
Bella will get better. So many ups and downs in New Moon.
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:12 am
Woo! You made it through the horridness of chapter three and kept going! I’m with Michelle… the book just isn’t the same without Edward… but I won’t go as far as to say I didn’t like it. It wasn’t my favourite, though, that’s for sure…
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:14 am
I’m so excited for you to be reading this book [:
I stayed up just to read this and it’s 1:13 in Indiana at the moment
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:15 am
I didn’t like the parts with Jacob lol. As a whole, I loved the book, the end was amazing too!
Also, yay 1st comment!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:16 am
You honestly don’t know what will happen at the end of New Moon? Everyone I know (including myself) frantically flipped to the end of New Moon after our hysteric butts saw also the passing months of nothingness.
Sorry, I never really make sense.
I will not express in detail my opinions on the Jacob/Edward situation, but I will say that I LOVVVEE Jacob and the the Jacob haters can stick it where the sun don’t shine.
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:16 am
No, you have not been spoiled wrong..and I strongly dislike that. Team Edward!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:18 am
In New Moon, most people tend to ignore Jacob and focus on looking for Edward….please don’t be one of those people! Keep an open mind….and notice how good Jacob is for her in this time. It is necessary for everyone (and Bella) to see what it is like for Bella without Edward and to see if she can function without Edward. Though this book is incredibly sad, it’s necessary!And awesome, in it’s own right. ;]
Eclipse is my personal favorite, but New Moon probably has my favorite adventure in it. =D
Keep reading!!=]]
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:19 am
This chapter was hard for me, because I was still feeling the pain of the previous chapter. However, seeing her wake up after those months was very refreshing. Like when you come up for air after your head has been underwater. The pages with the simple placing of the months was a brilliant move on Stephenie’s part, because you feel the emptiness within those deserted pages. And about the Jacob thing, I would say that people are Team Jacob partly because of the fact that he’s there when Edward isn’t. Although your reasoning has some hefty merit to it, as well. He seems healthier for her than Edward. Edward is a soda, and Jacob is water. When the soda is taken away from Bella, because it is unhealthy for her, she doesn’t know what to drink, and starts dehydrating. Then in comes water, and Bella is starting to feel refreshed again. It’s healthier for her, and makes her thirst go away. But she will always remember the sweet taste of the soda, and believing she can never have the soda again makes her stomach ache for just one more taste of soda. Haha I’m rambling on about beverages. But keep reading and writing, I’m happy you’re sharing your journey with us : )
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:20 am
hey make sure you dont speed through the next few chapters waiting for something to happen. you do a really thorough review of each one, its amazing actually, and it would suck if you stopped reading deep like that because of what youve gotten used to reading. just some advice =] you might have to read it twice to like it!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:24 am
Don’t worry, you were not spoiled incorrectly. Jacob does become a big part of this book, and like Bella says herself, he helped her come out of the darkness, acting as her own personal “sun”. Even though I’m a total Edward/Bella supporter, I won’t put Jake down. He was a great friend to Bella.
Let’s hope he makes it to the wedding!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:25 am
#11 Continued: Also, even though this book was my least favorite of the series, it has my favorite ending adventure. I think you’ll enjoy it!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:26 am
I totally felt Bella’s pain in this book. It almost killed me when Bella wouldn’t say the names. It felt like she thought that Edward was now “the ‘E’ word”.
I was at my mom’s work when I read it and the whole time I was practically screaming “Edward, his name is Edward. Say it!!!!!!”
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:29 am
Such a sad moment in their life.
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:29 am
It actually took me a really long time (for me, I mean, it was probably only two weeks) to finish Twilight, even as obsessed and captivated as I was. I don’t know, maybe I wanted to draw out the simple joy reading of it; I didn’t know there were going to be sequels to savor too. Anyway, then I got New Moon. Just like you, I was immediately hooked. I read the entire thing in about eight hours. Do you know how impossibly hard it is to sit through church on two hours of sleep? I do not recommend it. Pews, wooden and hard as they often are, do no make decent pillows. Keep on flipping those pages!
Brittney H: That is the most bizarre and strange analogy of Edward/Jacob I have ever heard, and yet it makes perfect sense. I love it!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:30 am
Hmm…I don’t hate Jacob, but I don’t love him either. It’s always been clear to me that Bella is meant to be with Edward, even after the Dreaded Chapter Three (which I just finished reading to my 13-year-old brother). But I was glad that Jacob was there to pull Bella out of her zombie state. After reading Eclipse, though, I’m not so terribly fond of him anymore, but not to the point of hating him. Just mild dislike.
Anyway, keep on with the awesomeness. I’m looking forward to your next post!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:32 am
I’m glad you made it through chapter 3.
personally new moon was not my favorite book (Eclipse is). I do think that jacob is good for her yet he’s not the same as Edward. I’M NOT A JACOB LOVER! BUT he is very important to the series no matter what. so i always tell people who read new moon to “Keep an open mind.”
the best is yet to come…
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:34 am
you are soo right Angela, I know alot of people who read New Moon just to search for Edward and I gave them the same advice, so I agree:) and also Brittney H. I couldn’t have said it better myself, aven if it did involve beverages:)I personally LOVE Jacob and every scene with him in it, but I was also sad about the fact that Edward left because I also had grown attached to them as a whole. I’m glad you found some humor in this chapter & I’m glad you haven’t given up on B/E.
Keep up the fast reading please;)
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:37 am
Kaleb. Please Do not be one of those obsessive Edward fangirls who can only focus on Edward coming back in New Moon.Keep an open mind for Jake. He’s not perfect. He makes mistakes. But he really is an amazing guy. I can’t explain to you why I’m a Jake lover right now cause you have to read Eclipse first and I WILL NOT spoil you!
I can’t believe how fast you’ve gotten through this. It still takes me a good 2 days before I can move on to chapter 4 and I’ve read New Moon like 15 times.
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:37 am
You’re right, Jacob does become important. I think he’s a great character, it’s just what he winds up doing later, mainly in Eclipse that ticks me off to no end.
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:44 am
It’s going to sound funny but when I first read New Moon, I was like Bella for some reason. I was upset when Edward left and mad at the fact that Jacob was then trying to hone in on her >:( But then I got used to him just like she did and then I even started to really like him, but one word about the vampires and I forgot all about him… Unfortunately I raced through these pages, because I wanted to read more about Edward and Bella. I didn’t really keep an open mind but if you do you’ll get a lot out of it. I know I did the second time around. Just keep reading and I’m sure you’ll be satisfied.
Looking forward to more posts!
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:47 am
im teamedward all the way but i dont hate jake its just that he never made her happy enough to leave the past in the past he did make her happy but not enough also i feel bad for him ..in a way bella is using jake…so idk i just dont think they belong togeth…..i hope that made sense its 1:46
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:48 am
I agree with Fallow. . he was alright in New Moon. . but he just pissed me off so much in Eclipse >:[
He became soo annoying .
& My personal Fave is Twilight . =]
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:50 am
Keep those funny pictures coming - especially during “New Moon.” We’ll need the comic relief during these sad parts!
I’m not a Jacob-lover (Go, Team Edward!), so I’ll politely give the floor to those who love the guy.
But I’m curious as to what team you’ll be on, Kaleb, by the end of this book and/or series. Team Jacob or Team Edward? Hmm…
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:54 am
Honestly, that’s why I hated Eclipse (not the book, exactly -I loved the book! Hah).
Because it made me think of all these coulda-would-shoulda-mighta(but didn’t!) situations.:/
In Eclipse, Jacob does mention something to Bella that I think would answer your question almost exactly on why some people prefer him to Edward. However, since you’re only at New Moon, I won’t write it.:)
July 23rd, 2008 at 12:57 am
Oh POO Edward! He’s a butface for leaving and I will never ever ever ever forgive him. I HATE EDWARD CULLEN!!! yes, i just said that (and in case you haven’t noticed, i’m a team Jacob… DIE HARD)
Let’s move onto Jacob shall we? Kaleb, please don’t skip to the end, it makes it soooo much better if you don’t know what happens (of course I know you probably wouldn’t so it would be all the more surprise to you when you get there)…
but just a little ending comment about jacob….
JACOB PWNS EDWARD!!!!!
I like my men with a pulse thanks.
Yes, i do hate edward cullen (but I love robert pattinson
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:00 am
I agree with those who said the book isn’t the same without Edward…
Edward and Bell together are what make the books irresistible to me.
*GASP!* Is that a typo I see?
“But simply getting out and doing something appears to have brightened BELLA future somewhat.”
You mean Bella’s? ^^
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:01 am
also, how can Jacob’s little 5-pages [starting on page 525 of eclipse] of gloriousness be “horrible” to any of you??? I mean, he is so much better at “that” then Edward is. haha.
You team edward people are so odd. I don’t get how you can still like him after chap. 3
he’s just, soo, annoying!
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:10 am
I’m team Edward, but I have to admit, I do like Jacob.
Jacob is very observant and exciting. You’ll see why.
But Edward is right for Bella. I’m not sure how to explain my reasoning without spoiling anything. The best explanation I can come up with is that Edward is very thoughtful and considerate, whereas Jacob doesn’t always think things through.
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:12 am
Though this was a depressing book, it was very crucial. And I actually enjoyed most of it. I’m Team Edward, but I do like Jacob, too. He was there for Bella when she needed him most, and you get to see different sides of him (some good and some not so good).
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:16 am
Well done for getting past the dreaded chapter 3 … and not crying (unless there’s something your not telling us).
I read New Moon in 1 day, like I’m sure lots of people did, and finished at 2am in the morning. By that time, I was officially Team Edward. I can understand what people mean when they say that Jacob is healthier for Bella, but do these people forget what a powerful and undying love B&E have!?
Don’t lose faith Kaleb, and try not to skip to the ending like I did to try and find a glimpse of the name ‘Edward’. The ending is also my favorite adventure, so I have to say the pain of reading through Bella’s heartbreak is worth it in the end.
=)
All you twilighters know what I’m talking about … page 452 anyone?!?!
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:18 am
New moon was very difficult for me to read because of Edward leaving. I was one of those people who very distractedly labored on through the rest of it. In the New Moon FAQ, Stephenie recommends reading the book for a second time to really get to know Jacob. I did, but after the second reading, all I can say is that it was easier to read it now. Jacob is a wonderful friend for Bella, but she really does belong with Edward.
Kaleb, you put it perfectly when you wrote that you now come into New Moon wanting to read about Edward and Bella together. With him gone, we really have lost half the main character.
Melanie, I love that part in Eclipse when Jacob describes himself and Edward and their effects on Bella. Reading that though, it makes so much sense about why we’re all so stuck on Edward.
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:19 am
I personally dislike Jacob, but I thought he was a pretty nice guy before Eclipse. Edward was really stupid to leave Bella, but they belong together and I couldn’t imagine Bella with anyone else.
Whenever I read this book I always spiral down into depression until I finish it. My friends ask me why I reread it if it depresses me so much and I honestly don’t know why I do either.
I’m glad you seem to have not sunk into a deep depression reading New Moon. Yet anyways…
It’s so hard not to spoil everything! Read fast or I might crack
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:24 am
I’m a Jacob-lover and New Moon is one of my favorites. I too was sad when Edward left because he is a fantastic character and Bella has been exposed to him and is now completely consumed by that extremely rare type of love. That predestined, my world ends without you type of love and there is nothing that says that type of rare love is rational, irratonal, healthy or unhealthy. I do believe, that type of love isn’t supposed to be purposely ended by either person involved (no matter how noble the intentions) and that happening can destroy a person.
With that said I just don’t see it as a question of whether or not Jacob or Edward is better for her because it doesn’t matter. Jacob and Edward can both be dangerous in my opinion(and I’m talking emotionally)Besides Bella is past that point now she simply needs Edward, he is a crucial necessity. I love Jacob because he does the impossible. He does for Bella what she and most readers of the story are convinced will never happen.
Alright I think I miss my lit classes at Thiel
I hope that made some sense cause it’s possible it doesn’t lol. Happy Reading!
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:32 am
Congrats on getting past chapter 3! That was a hard one for me to get through. A word of advice about Jacob…when I read New Moon for the first time, a lot of the book had already been spoiled for me. Because of this, I was able to look at Jacob and his role in the book in a different light. A lot of people, when they read New Moon, resent Jacob just because Edward isn’t there anymore. Be careful not to let that cloud your judgement of Jacob. Personally I think Jacob is a great guy, and that he is able to help Bella makes him even better. Still…Edward rules!! Keep posting!
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:33 am
Definitely team edward. I do like jacob in new moon and twilight, but by eclipse i have to agree, I really got annoyed.
To me, the best is still the first book. Second best is new moon, third is eclipse.
i know Edward left Bella, and some people got so angry, (and probably even switched to team jacob) but its not that he wanted to actually leave her. Plus, it hurt him too. I wonder how everyone will find it if they read his POV. Him leaving made the story all the better. The ‘favorite adventure’ mentioned wouldn’t be there if Edward didn’t leave. It made us cry, but that’s what made it an effective book, right?
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:34 am
This book was the most emotional for me. At this point, I’d simply put Edward in the back of my mind. And enjoy the wonderful Jacob Black… you might even find him more to your liking!
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:40 am
The intense withdrawal isn’t why I like Jacob more, it has more to do with their kind of love for Bella, but that will be discussed much later. I don’t hate Edward and quite honestly being Team Jacob for me doesn’t mean I think Bella and Jacob will end up together. I’m team Jacob because he doesn’t make Bella question herself in regards to whether or not she’s worthy of his love. Which is what bothered me the most, the idea that Bella actually could believe Edward when he left. Oh and I’ve officially convinced a guy friend into reading Twilight it’s quite exciting!
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:54 am
Personally, I love Edward as a character, and if he existed and didn’t see me as nothing more than a lowly mortal I might make him my best friend forever. *But* as a boyfriend, he’s kind of scary. Everything he does is done with the best intentions, but he’s sort of stalkerish and pretty damn controlling. He tells her who to hang out with, what to do, treats her like he always knows better than her, he even tells her when to eat. Again, all with the purest of intentions, but still controlling. Especially since Bella made him her whole world. No one should have that much power over someone else, no matter how good they mean it.
Jacob on the other hand (without giving too much away), treats Bella like an equal. He might act like an ass sometimes, but he respects her. He doesn’t tell her how to run her life, he just wants her to be happy.
And if you look at how her life would have to be to stay with Edward — constantly lying, possibly becoming a vampire herself, leaving behind all her friends and family just for the sake of Edward — Jacob could be the healthier choice.
From a literary standpoint, I think Bella belongs with Edward. If Bella were my friend, I would say go with Jacob and don’t look back.
July 23rd, 2008 at 1:54 am
This book was my least favorite in the series, but I loved the ending action.
I’m a complete Edward/Bella supporter, although I… understand where the Jacob lovers are coming from. Jacob was a good friend, until he became too pushy with his interest in Bella as more than a friend.
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:01 am
I HATE U! U PUT SOMETHING FUNNY AND THIS IS VERY DEPRESSING!!!
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:03 am
Oh! Another note on the Edward vs. Jacob debate I forgot to mention.
Bella always feels inadequate when she’s with Edward. Like he’s so much more than she could ever deserve. This not only adds to the power he has over her, but it makes her that much more insecure in herself. Doubting all the time that he could really love her as much as he said he did and always fearing that he would get over her and leave are not seeds for a healthy relationship, or a healthy self-concept.
That’s not the way it is with Jacob though. She can act her age, have fun. She genuinely likes him and she knows that he genuinely likes her. She’s never afraid that he’ll just leave,and she doesn’t look at the him as if he’s so far above her, placating her by allowing her lowly self in his presence.
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:18 am
I prefer edward over jacob for many reasons…i cant say my reasons, else i will fully spoil the whole novel…GO TEAM EDWARD~!!
congratulations on getting past Chapter 3, i was slightly worried you would stop like my friends did (then i forced her to keep on reading)…
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:30 am
i love jacob, i really do, but i just like edward more than him. (which is the nicest i’m going to probably ever say, because i started out hating jacob…) but you’re not far enough to debate on that, so anyway, good job:D when edward left, i actually had to skip through the book to see when i see the name cullen again, so that i would have a purpose to keep reading, ahhaa. oh and i totally agree with the entry before this. saying that they were more like one character than two seperate ones with the way they gew on each other.
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:50 am
Good job on reading the next chapter. I promise it will get better. So keep reading
Also, your reading speed is getting faster. Keep up the pace!
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:56 am
Kaleb, I’ve loved reading your thoughts because of how much you remind me what it was like for me to read the books the first time through, There’s a thrill and anticipation that comes the first time reading a book that can only come the first time through. And I want to thank you for giving that to us, even though you have to suffer through people spoiling and hinting and trying to tell you what to think or do or not do. lol. I feel very sorry for you especially if you’ve read the comments like I have. I’m sorry and I hope we don’t ruin the story for you. Or take away that first-read rush
I hope you know what I’m referring to because I don’t think I can express it in so many words. Just allow yourself to feel what you do without worrying what anyone else will say or tells you.
Having said that, since you asked, I’ll tell you that while I am completely and totally 200% team Edward, I do love Jake’s character.
Let me try to explain… let me say first that my reaction to chapter three was too feel absolutely heartbroken, for Bella of course, but even more so for Edward. I had (still have) no anger and no hatred for him for doing what he did. For me it only showed the depth of of his love, that he would do something so completely self-sacrificial. He is voluntarily giving up his claim on her heart. And giving her the right to hate him (as some readers have come to) based on our natural, human demand for fairness.
On the one hand, Jake gets a good rap because he’s normal. He wouldn’t hurt Bella by choosing to leave her. He’s much more safe for her in that sense. because he doesn’t control his emotions and force himself to be as strictly rational as Edward.
However, on the other hand Jake gets a bad rap because compared to Edward, he looks bad. In his defense, let me say that compared to Edward, most adults would seem like brats, monks gluttons, and mother Teresa positively selfish.
But on the other hand (yes, I realize I have three hands now. lol.)Jake’s character is frustrating and it’s hard not to take it out on him for the trouble he causes. I don’t hate him, but I do hate that others hate Edward because of him. If that makes any sense…
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:57 am
Love the pirate pic, good to see you in good spirits again!
About Jake, I don’t loooove him but I don’t dislike him either…
Can’t wait for you to read on so I can tell you exactly how I feel about him ^^
July 23rd, 2008 at 3:37 am
BTW… very apt song choice for this chapter. i’m bummed i didn’t think of it….
<>
hell-friggin’-yes!!!! and i’m not a Jacob lover per se… i favor Jacob after pondering over specific things Jacob and Edward do and say over the course of these books… and deemed Jacob slightly better for it. Bella is a needy lil’ girl and we don’t realize this until Edward is gone, that she has been obsessively and unhealthily hooked to this guy so much so she’s annoying. i felt her pain of loss but 4 months of this is ridiculous!
but then again… with no trace of the Cullens ever having been there, there’s that notion of insanity - that she could dream up a family of vampires, and she couldn’t talk to anyone about it… i can see the torture in that respect.
when Jacob’s in the picture, her inhibitions and guard is let down…; and i honestly think that Jacob is good for her, because Edward -with his chivalry and ’sweet nothings’- just hurts and overreacts.
July 23rd, 2008 at 3:38 am
“Do you think she is too obsessively attached to Edward for the relationship to ever be good for her?”
That, and the fact Edward is a poetry-writing, piano-playing, lyrical-waxing douche.
Jus’ saying.
July 23rd, 2008 at 3:49 am
don’t worry both edward and bella are going to go through ups and downs and jacob is just a rebound kid that bella needs to pass time til her love returns(: team edwarddd
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:01 am
Well folks, this is another Team Edward fan. I normally dont write comments, but I did want to write a thought.
Kaiti, I loved reading your views of why Jacob is the better choice for Bella. And in no way am I saying anything bad about your views since I go more for Edwards cause. Something that did make me think though is your statement about how Bella feels inadequate when she’s with Edward. I’m not disagreeing with you. Heck, it pretty much seems like that throughout Twilight and in some parts of New Moon. I think even Bella knows that in some ways, she feels and is different when she’s with Jacob(what you said about how she can just be herself). Yes, I hate that Edward tends to be too protective with her. But I think that because of how long he’s lived and all the dangers he’s seen(not including his kind), Edward assumes that by being over-protective is the only way to make sure she stays safe. In this sense, I do like Jacob more since he doesn’t try to restrain her the way Edward does. The simple fact that you brought Bella’s inadequate feelings towards Edward up, I think, actually sheds some light on why people remain Team Edward after New Moon. Yes, I’m saddened by the fact that Bella assumes that Edward really is speaking truth when he said he didn’t love her anymore. Who could blame Bella for feeling shattered? But if you look deeper into this book, I think that one of its purposes is to show to both Bella and Edward (and to all readers) just how deep their relationship really is. Both come to realize that one is not whole without the other. Remember Bella’s epiphany near the end? Ah, I cant really put more then that on here because I dont want to spoil anything for Kaleb(although I do think this does…sorry Kaleb!). Hopefully Kaiti you get where I’m going with this. Again, I do like Jacob because he was there for Bella. And I really did love reading what you had to say. It’s nice to hear from both sides. Haha now you’ve got me appreciating Jacob more then before!
Keep reading Kaleb. Finish New Moon and Eclipse quick so you can be in lines with the rest of us to get Breaking Dawn! Wait, dont you order yours online? Oh Kaleb, what are we going to do with you?
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:04 am
it’s not only her obsessive nature towards edward, its the fact that I feel at this point in her life she was only truly happy when she was with jacob. she needed a friend and found one in Jacob, she was more human, more animated and he was there for her.
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:05 am
ok…. i am totally team switzerland. i think that both Jacob and Edward are great, and i’m going to try and keep this as un-spoilery as possible. and brittney h– your analogy is great…. but maybe more like…… i don’t know….. hmm……. Fruit and Vegetables? both are really good for you, but one is so much sweeter? but no matter which you choose, it’s still a good choice? i’m not sure. all i know is that i am really hungry and thirsty now. haha
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:07 am
I love Jacob. He is my favorite character.
I love Bella and WHO SHE BECOMES when she is with Jacob. She is indepedent. She’s spirited. She’s ALIVE.
It’s what Jacob does to her. His perpetual happiness becomes a key part of Bella’s happiness.
Nnnnngh… I can’t explain it without Eclipsing you >.<
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:08 am
Do I think Bella is too obsessed? Absolutely. Not once does she even TRY to move on.
Over at our community, we have done something similar to your reading-blog, and did an epic re-read of the entire series… and picking apart the series is perhaps something you don’t want to try. If you look too close it all becomes just a little too freaky.
However this isn’t why I am Team Jacob. It’s because of his overall character. Really he’s the type of person you can’t help but like. Funnily enough, even though this book is full of depressingness, I spent most of it smiling. Because you really can’t help but like Jacob Black. It’s like… waking up. Scenes with him are like breathing fresh air. Even if he’s being infuriating it’s something new, and something different compared to the repetitive ‘I love you’, ‘I love you more, but I’ll eat you’, ‘but you can’t leave me cause I’ll die!’. It’s not that Jacob is healthier, because he has his own problems, it’s just that he’s always somebody new. He offers a promise of something different every single day. And it’s something that’s very attractive to many of us on Team Jacob.
But you probably need to read up until the end of Eclipse to maybe feel that way.
But yes, I still think Bella/Edward is a little too… obsessive for my liking. It’s off-putting for me. Plus, the desire to become a vampire is absolutely horrifying. The fact that she’d want to do that for ANYONE makes me think she’s a little messed up in the head. There are vast moral implications with Bella becoming a vampire, there’s a parallel between her being technically suicidal by wanting to become a vampire, there’s the fact that choosing to become an immortal is against what it is to be human, and that’s stomping on human sanctity, there’s the fact that becoming a vampire is to be turned against your own species… it’s just all so wrong. How could anyone want that for Bella, or for anyone?
Anyways, like I said… perhaps it’s best not to pick apart the series. Too much at least.
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:16 am
I think that I tend to prefer Jacob simply because, every now and then, I have the tendency to brood and I really would love to have close somone serene and cheerful like Jacob
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:59 am
I think Jake is a better choice for Bella (though I’d hate for her to pick him) because he IS the healthier choice. Her relationship with Jacob isn’t shallow and is real, and true, and is more than just some stupid obsession that won’t last. It’s got depth, and Bella is slightly more tolerable with Jacob. He’s a human being, who wouldn’t even be a werewolf if it weren’t for Edward, who has realistic thoughts and feelings, and doesn’t get half of his insides from a Hallmark store.
He’s just a natural choice, and Bella wouldn’t have to change anything in her life for him. She wouldn’t be giving up any lives or experiences (unless being dead is an experience now) by being with him. And she also wouldn’t be breaking her parents’ hearts by being selfish in offing herself in the most unnatural way I’ve ever heard of.
That’s just how I feel about it anyway.
July 23rd, 2008 at 5:27 am
Hmm, to the Team Jacob chicks:
Since I don’t want to post any spoilers for Kaleb (or anyone else that has not read all of the books so far) but you are missing the obvious point in the Bella/Jacob paradox. I think Jake is a wonderful guy, and exactly what Bella needed at this time in her life (in New Moon), but he is not HER soulmate…think about it (if you don’t get it, try re-reading chapter 5 in Eclipse).
July 23rd, 2008 at 5:33 am
Team Jacob!
I mean.. I used to love Edward. Really! He was perfect, what was there not to love? Romantic, sensitive, smart, caring, protective, GORGEOUS… The perfect guy, in other words.
And then… He left. Bella almost die. Gosh, how sick is that?
I konw everybody loves a good dramatiuc love story, look at Romeo and Juliet. But look how they end up: dead. Yeah yeah, they love each other, but i dont think that really matters when your dead.
And then, there is Jacob. Jacob is great, funny, spontaneous, wild, friendly, he runs around naked all the time, he rides a motorcycle… And just love him! And he always brings Bella back to life.
Love, obsession… They run together all the time. I think the end is pretty obvious, if Bella stick with Edward.
Plus, Edward does not have a soul, like him self says. Jacob is full of light. What do you prefer? Live in darkness or full of light?
July 23rd, 2008 at 5:39 am
Okay I love Jacob, he’s your best friend that you can totally fall in love with(my boyfriend and I are best friends). Jacobs may not be super model hot, but he is cute and gets better looking physically through New Moon and Eclipse. Bella doesn’t have coherency issues when she’s speaking to Jacob. Plus she could stay human and have kids and since he’s a werewolf(I read you already know) he’s strong enough to protect her from herself. All this being said about Jacob though that’s the reason I would pick him, but Bella isn’t me and I believe 110% her and Edward should be to together.
July 23rd, 2008 at 5:53 am
When Bella is with Jacob, things are just easier in general. She can say whatever she feels like saying without trying to impress him. Like Edward, Jacob is strong enough to protect Bella from herself without her having to sacrifice a thing to be with him. However, I have to say that I am Team Edward, but a Jacob Supporter. I think Edward and Bella are perfection, but I just can’t help but love Jacob Black.
July 23rd, 2008 at 6:03 am
When Edward left, I knew he was leaving for her sake, that he was lying but the way she believed him, made me believe him too and suffer with her. I can feel her cringe and hold herself together. It’s scary how real the emotions of the writing are- Stephenie does a great job in that sense.
Do I feel Jacob is healthier choice? Yes. There are so many reasons, and Jacob will explain that so I will let him do that.
But remember back in Twilight, you wrote about Bella taking the cold medicine and then all the additional quotes when she appeared to be under a drug? Edward is her drug. She will never be whole again without him- whether he comes back or not.
I love Jacob. Like another poster stated, I smiled and giggled at his youth but more at Bella, trying and finding herself again. It wasn’t the same ‘aww’ moments as Twilight offered with Edward, but if you really allow Jacob in, you may see that too.
July 23rd, 2008 at 6:44 am
Jacob lover here. Bella’s withdrawal isn’t necessarily the reason why many of us think that Jacob is the better choice, so much as Bella’s adjustment after she and Jacob grow closer. However, chapter 4 was the tip of the iceberg for many of us (myself included). I’m sorry, but there’s post breakup sadness, self destructive behavior, and then Bella in that order. She’s not devoted, she’s obsessive and that’s not remotely healthy. Edward broke Bella, but Jake was the one willing and able to put her back together again, and that says something very important to me.
July 23rd, 2008 at 6:58 am
Okay, sit back and relax, this will be a long one.
First of all, let me just establish the basics.
1.I love Edward. I do, especially in twilight.
2. I like Bella, at least the part where she accepted Edward for who and not just what he is. So, he’s a vampire but he tries so hard, to be good. And i like the fact that sometimes, she can shovel through all the dirt and find the diamond within as you can see later on in Eclipse *snigger*.
4. I am so totally in love with Jacob Black I cannot begin to tell you how much I love him.
In twilight, I love Edward and Bella, I get a little tired of all the *swooning over Edward* but I get it, she’s in love, and he’s just too beautiful so biased times a million there, I’m surprised, Bella hasn’t been struck blind already.
In Newmoon I suffered with Bella for losing her truest of loves, I really did though there a point (where Edward–I knew he was acting a part but hell–said that human memories are frail things and that she’ll forget him in time I can’t help but yelled “you patronizing, beepbableep”, but then again, he’s a hundred years old vampire, he just can’t help himself and he meant well, obviously.
I would like Bella to be with Jacob more than anything though I realize that is not a possibility because of the way Bella is. I want Bella to have a LIFE, to be someone who can stand on her own two feet, to feel joy within herself because of something that she does herself, not because of Edward or Jacob, I just want her to be happy with herself, by herself without any outside influence. I want her to be herself and be whole.
I ache for her for losing Edward, but damn girl, stop being such an addictive personality, okay?
I know that being in love is hard enough especially when you’re a teenager, especially when your true love happens to be a mythical creature, but I can’t stand the fact that Bella just can LIVE with just herself, and she keeps holding on to what she had didn’t even attempt on having a life on her own. She just traded one addiction for the other; Jacob.
It not that I want her to be with Edward or Jacob, in Newmoon, I just want her to be.
Now having said that, I do have some complaints on Edward, but I’ll save it for Eclipse…on his behavior that if my boy friend ever did that to me, I would’ve kicked him to curb and won’t look back or spare him another thought…but then again, when I was Bella’s age, I was never THAT young…so I don’t get her most of the time.
Plus, I have nothing against vampires, but I never get the joy of living forever, I agree with Edward’s reluctance, his nobility in his willingness to live a life of loneliness and I can’t understand Bella’s determination to be a vampire.
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:01 am
Well, when i first read thru New Moon, i tolerated Jacob. I was glad to see how good of friends her and Bella were becoming, but at the same time the book felt incomplete without Edward. Unfortunately, i dont think i can really say why i started to hate Jacob without giving away some of the story, but in a sense i think he tries to take advantage of Bella in her weak state, and that really annoyed me. It was after that i started my hate for Jacob and reinstated my love for Edward.
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:12 am
Good Kaleb! Just keep on going like all of us did. I felt so bizarre reading the book without Edward on it, but i got used to it, i hope the same thing happens for you!! … It’s not that i don’t like Jacob, but deep inside he could be as good as Edward! You’ll see!! But still i’m Team Edward!!
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:29 am
I love Jacob with the passion of a thousand flaming novas. Edward and Bella’s romantic drivel in the first book, and their inability to talk about ANYTHING else, really got boring after a while. Enter Jacob, who turned out to be bright, fun, and more understanding and intuitive than Edward for all his mind reading prowess. I love how he gives Bella the opportunity to have a relationship without forcing her to sacrifice everything: her friends, her family, and her very life. Their love in natural, blossoms as a friendship into something more. It develops much more realistically than Bella and Edwards three day “I love you.” Jake’s protective without being controlling, he’s romantic without being sappy, and most of all he loves Bella for all her faults. Go Jake!
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:35 am
Hi, long time reader, first time commenter.
I adore Jacob, and all that he did for Bella. But I don’t think the problem is that Bella is obsessed with Edward,and needs a ‘healthier’ relationship, but rather just in love. Truly, painfully, irrevocably in love; and you can’t just ‘get over it’. More to come, I’m sure you know. The last chapters concerning her intense bond with Jacob almost had me sold, as it almost has her sold…I’ll stop here.
I really love your reviews of each chapter. Thanks for taking the time and posting your thoughts!
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:35 am
To be honest I didn’t miss Edward one bit in this book. The most irritating part was how Bella just FELL APART after he left (that’s just not natural, nor is it a indicator of “tru luv”). When Jacob entered Bella’s life I though it was refreshing - we finally got a character written like a realistic individual! I love how he “fixed” Bella when nobody else was willing. To me the story of the one who puts you back together is far more romantic and intriguing than the story of the one who ABANDON you in the first place. Regardless of the fact that Edward left for Bella’s “own good” - he still left, Jacob stuck around, end of story for me.
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:36 am
Kara:
“but in a sense i think he tries to take advantage of Bella in her weak state, and that really annoyed me. It was after that i started my hate for Jacob and reinstated my love for Edward.”
*eye-rolling*
I’m really hoping that when you come to certain parts in New Moon and Eclipse you won’t be completely ridiculous about everything Jacob does, Kaleb. I’m not saying you should become a Jacob fan, I’m just saying do try to be reasonable. If anything I find it’s reason that some E/B’ers lack when they voice the opinion that Jacob ever takes advantage of a weakened state of anyone.
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:41 am
You are amazing. I love your posts! I can’t wait for you to read more of New Moon. I don’t really like Jacob, so New Moon was the hardest book for me to get through. Please post more soon; I want to know what you think about New Moon!
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:44 am
“So I would really like to hear from those Jacob-lovers if Bella’s intense withdrawal from Edward is one of the reasons you think Jacob is better for her? Do you think she is too obsessively attached to Edward for the relationship to ever be good for her?”
In a word: yes. Bella’s attachment to Edward has always been unhealthy and obsessive, just like a drug addiction (very apt metaphor Smeyer – though I don’t think she intended for it to be used this way). All the talk of Edward’s “god like beauty” and his skill at everything have left Bella feeling inadequate, an inadequacy she hopes to rectify by becoming a vampire herself. But one of the key indicators of an unhealthy relationship is feeling that you need to change for someone.
With Jacob it’s different – Bella can be herself around him, just human. She doesn’t have to become a vampire, sacrifice her family and her humanity, just so that she feels deserving on his love. Jacob loves Bella the way she is, broken and all, and she knows that. He’s seen her worst and loves her in spite of it all – now that’s real devotion.
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:48 am
I love the way you can describe the chapters so well. I’m glad your hooked! Thats what we all wanted to hear!!! Keep reading Kaleb, this is my favourite book!
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:50 am
p.s. That is a perfect song choice!
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:05 am
i find it funny how everyone says “you need to read it twice to love jacob!” well shouldn’t that be exactly what Stephanie meyer wanted? Isn’t that exactly how Bella felt? That even though someone equally as awesome as Edward was there, she spent so much time hanging onto the thoughts of edward that she could never realize she loved him.. UNTIL eclipse?
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:13 am
I don’t know why, but I always liked Jacob, no matter what he did… I could always understand him.
The same goes for Edward, and his decision to leave Bella.
But I don’t think that Bella would ever be the same without Edward… so I don’t think that she could ever be completely happy with Jacob.
If Bella’s attachment to Edward is unhealthy… I don’t know.
She depends on Jacob very much too…
Anyway I got to love Jacob and the wolf pack in this book and completely forgot about the vampires =)
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:15 am
I love Edward & Jacob. But, I don’t think Edward is unhealthy for her at all. Edward’s her soul mate, so it’s reasonable for her to be acting this way.
And yes, I think you do need to read the series twice to love Jacob. I HATED Jacob the first time around. But, now I see that he’s just a really sweet guy. Just like Bella, I was in denial that I loved Jacob because I was so obsessed with Edward. But now I love them both
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:16 am
I’m a little bit of a Jacob fan, and I agree that it is almost unhealthy for Bella to be so obsessed with Edward. At times, New Moon got me frustrated that Bella couldn’t, if not move on, but at least LIVE without Edward. I know, it shows how deeply in love they are, but it is still sad that Bella can’t seem to survive normally on her own anymore. If she’s like this just not being with Edward, how the heck would she react if Edward were to die?!?
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:18 am
I think Jacob is better for her for numerous reasons. But yes, her dependency on Edward is one of those. With Edward, I feel it reaches a point of obsession, and what they have reads to me, as more of an obsessive love than anything else, and it just doesn’t sit well with me. Bella is dependent on him, to the point that she pretty much believes she is worthless without him. And when she is with Edward, she has absolutely no independence, and no real personality. She allows Edward to control her and tell her what she should and should not do.
Edward’s character really just, bothers me. He’s controlling and possessive, he thinks he knows what is best all of the time, and honestly, it’s disturbing. The fact that he pretty much stalked Bella and watched her sleep before they even got together is disturbing, and not normal. And the fact that it doesn’t bother Bella at all is a testament to how unhealthy their relationship is.
Bella believes she cannot live without Edward, she is so convinced that life without him will be complete despair and darkness, that I think she actually enjoys the darkness, because she is so accustomed to it. With Jake, she opens up, she begins to show some real personality, something I felt we never really saw when she was with Edward. She was able to show some independence. And that it is possible to live without Edward. Because her problem is not that she can’t live without Edward. It’s that she won’t.
How unhealthy their relationship is is even highlighted in the books. The codependency. She describes Edward as a drug, a habit she can’t break. An obsession really, that if she really did put some effort into it, she could get past. Whereas Jacob is the air and sun, he’s natural, he’s healthier for her. He picks her up and puts her back together again, gives her life, he makes her really, genuinely smile. With Edward, it’s always so dramatic with their testaments of love, and how they cannot live without each other, and all of that corny crap. But with Jacob, none of that corny crap needs to be said, it isn’t dramatic and ridiculous, it’s so natural. He makes her smile. It’s just so genuine and natural.
The problem is this; Edward is her life. No one should ever be your entire life to the extent that absolutely nothing else or no one else matters, and that’s the case with Edward and Bella. The one you love should complete your life, fulfill your life, and that is who Jacob is to Bella. He doesn’t try to control her, he doesn’t try to tell her who she should and shouldn’t be friends with. He’s just there, giving her a chance at life, and he loves her.
I think the beauty of Jacob and Bella is that their relationship is so natural and real, it doesn’t feel forced. The love each other, flaws and all. Whereas, with Edward, Bella is so blinded that she cannot see his flaws, she refuses to see, she believes he is perfect, and spends most of her time remarking on how beautiful he is, there’s no real substance, no foundations. She and Jacob feel more true, more real.
People constantly compare Edward and Bella to Romeo and Juliet, yet they don’t see that that is is really not a good thing. Yes, E/B are reminiscent of R/J, but not because they’re OMGTRULOVE. Because their love doesn’t have any basis. All we have is the fact that Edward would quite like to eat her, and Bella going on and on for a couple of hundred pages how Edward is so perfect and beautiful and she can’t live without him, blah blah blah. Their foolishness is similar to that of Romeo and Juliet’s, the obsession is similar, and the “I won’t live without you” attitude is similar. Romeo and Juliet is not a positive depiction of love, and nor is Edward and Bella.
Jacob and Bella however, are exactly what love should be. Natural, real and true.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:18 am
Yeah, I don’t think Bella could ever be completely happy with either of them because she will always love the other as well.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:20 am
Wow. It’s interesting tosee a guys POV reading that chapter (or those chapters I guess I should say).
They never are an easy read, no matter how many times I read them. That probably stems from the fact that I had been left by who I considered my Edward just weeks before reading New Moon.
Time Passes.
And the sunshine returns.
Keep reading!
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:31 am
Morgana:
“Because her problem is not that she can’t live without Edward. It’s that she won’t.
”
Well Freaking Said.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:31 am
I understand where everybody is coming from when they say that Jake is healthier for Bella than Edward, BUT, I disagree.
I think that, while, yes, Jake was and is still, a very good friend to Bella, I believe she loves him in a different way than how she loves Edward. A more familial, less romantic way, more as a really great best friend. (though I think Edward is also her best friend, she also feels very romantically towards him.
Some of the comments talked about how Jake is healthier because Bella wouldn’t have to change anything to be with him. And that is true. BUT, keep in mind, Edward isn’t forcing Bella to change either. He’s never put any sort of pressure on her to change into a vampire, he’s looking out for her, and knows she’s not yet ready.
I’m team edward all the way, but I do also see the positive parts of Jacob Black. I just think Edward is Bella’s destiny, and vice versa-if he never became a vampire, he never would have met her-his soul mate.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:31 am
wow ur going through this book fast! keep going. but i hope u dont get to far behind in more things lol.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:34 am
’sigh’ i am Team Edward and for me, when I wasnt crying in New Moon it felt like thousands of knifes stabing my stomach, Bella would remember Edward and being a vampire and then think (not spoiling here) no no that is over, gone , done with! and there go the knifes, she would think about him or them together and ouch those knifes return. New Moon was not a fun book for me.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:39 am
Lo:
Edward isn’t forcing Bella to change, but being in a relationship with him is compelling her to want to, mostly because Bella is blind to Edward’s own flaws and hyper-aware of her own inadequacies comparatively.
And Bella does love Jacob romantically, she even says so (though I won’t elaborate to prevent spoilers). Their love just takes time to develop, the way real love should. It’s supposed to go through phases where you mean different things to each other. As Kurt Halsey (appropriately) said: “First like, then luck, then love.”
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:48 am
Congrats on being a Partner.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:56 am
This is in response to the people that are commenting that Bella’s relationship with Edward was unhealthy. SM said that when she wrote that, she was thinking about how you would react if you lost your true soulmate, your other half -not just some teenage crush. Bella and Edward are destined for each other, and when Edward leaves, he’s denying that destiny for both of them. SM compared the loss of Edward to the way a parent would feel losing a child. The pain may fade with time, but it never, ever goes away. You can cope, but you never, ever heal. I really like Jacob, but he’s only able to help her up to a point. Bella is broken, and she cannot be fixed. She can limp along, and maintain a sort of facade, but she is not whole.
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:58 am
honestly i love edward more then jacob, but after reading new moon the second time (since i mostly skimmed to get to edward again)i really do appreciate all that jacob did in bella’s life while edward was away
but ONLY appreciate his act of kindness not think that he is right for bella, because he isnt. TEAM EDWARD!!! :DDD
July 23rd, 2008 at 8:59 am
Comment #78: AMEN! I agree with you completely.
July 23rd, 2008 at 9:00 am
damn you, kaleb!!
you nearly made me cry all over again reading these last two posts!!!!
July 23rd, 2008 at 9:11 am
When I read the “time passes” part, it was SO sad to me, still is. There is so much truth to have paragraph.
I think I liked Jacob more and appreciated him more, after I read New Moon for the second time. I had to read it twice. I am Team Edward and I want and think it should be Bella and Edward, always, they just fit, but I want Jacob to be happy too.
July 23rd, 2008 at 9:19 am
Personally I find the idea of soul mates to be utter crap. Bella is 17, and just like Renee she’s too young to know what she really wants for the rest of her life. Even worse, there’s no “divorcing” a permanent change and damnation to a life of repeating high school until the end of days. As far as readers can tell Bella is more in lust than she is in love with Edward – the only thing we know about their relationship is that she thinks he’s pretty…a lot. Really pretty. With pretty topaz eyes, that are very pretty.
She should use her mother as a cautionary tale and take some time to figure out who she is before she rushes into an irreversible choice that she may live to regret. In real life love doesn’t work the way Bella wants it to. It’s complex, it changes, and sometimes it’s shared between multiple people. And the only real solutions to that problem are time and life experience.
July 23rd, 2008 at 9:25 am
Im team Jacob. Period.
I don’t *hate* Edward, but I do dislike him very, very strongly. He’s too controlling, unhealthy, etc.
Jacob is Bella’s soulmate. Bella even realizes this (in eclipse- oops, spoiler!). He’s the type of guy *I* would date, plus, he’s so realistic! I think the reason I dislike Edward so is because he is so fictional. He just isn’t real, and there’s no way he could be. But Jacob, on the other hand, very easily could be real. He has characteristics that many guys do have. No guy have I ever met is inhumanly beautiful, perfect in every way (*snort*), etc. But Jacob is flawed. And both he and Bella realize these flaws. You can’t have a relationship completely blinded. If Bella even *once* noticed that Edward was flawed, then I would be a bit happier about their relationship. But she doesn’t notice *any* of his flaws. Even when Edward points them out (and Kudos to him, for doing so) she doesn’t think so. Their relationship is purely obsessive, unhealthy, and foggy.
Jacob is, as Bella describes him, like air. He is utterly and completely the best choice for her. He’s funny, kind, NOT overcontrolling, self-sacraficing, observant, understanding, patient, and TRULY in love with Bella. He sees her clearly for who she is, flaws and all, and accepts it. When he realizes that her obsession with Edward is unhealthy, he tries to make her notice it, but when she doesn’t listen, he doesn’t try to push her. And he lets her make her own mistakes. Edward is completely overprotective and overbearing. A prime example: The baseball scene. If he hadn’t immediately gone and jumped in front of her, James may have not taken as much interest. He doesn’t let Bella do anything even remotely dangerous. On the other hand, Jacob lets her be human. Edward always talks about keeping her human, and not wanting to change her, but in truth, he has already changed her in a way that makes her utterly not-human. If she were a normal human, she would get hurt and make her own mistakes. If she were normal, she would stand up for herself, allow herself to occasionally get mad at Edward and see his flaws, like she does with Jake.
I’ve said enough. I dislike Edward, love Jacob, and I’ve given you my reasons why. ’nuff said. =)
–Samantha L.
July 23rd, 2008 at 9:29 am
Don’t worry. There is truly no way to understate Jacob’s importance in New Moon. Some say Twilight is about Edward, New Moon is about Jacob, and Eclipse is for…you’ll have to find out.
And I’d also like to let you know that there are more than two teams (Everything Edward and Just Jacob). I am a member of Refuse to Choose. I love them both.
Edward is…Edward. Everything about him is wonderfully dramatic in a not-on-purpose way. He’s beautiful in everyway. He’s a true gentleman. But he also takes things too seriously. And he never does anything halfway. Plus Edward thinks WAY too much. But he’s incredibly talented. (Note: I’ve also noticed he’s not the only Edward in history who plays the piano excellently. Two other characters who have stood out are Edward Lewis from Pretty Woman and Edward Rochester from Jane Eyre. Of course, since Bella isn’t a hooker or a governess, the similarities end with the Edwards and the love between them and their heroines. Haha. Bella the Hooker: An Epilogue. I