How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"Most of the smart ones get away." But if that were the case, how could any combination of obstacles have hindered the flight of a man like Ethan Frome? (Prologue. 18)
Maybe Ethan never got away because he is intelligent, but not practical. It is also because the accumulated isolation of his life prevents him from seeing beyond it. He has no real reason to believe he can have happiness, and has basically given up all hope. He feels love for Mattie, but is really just going through the motions, unwilling to take a chance on happiness with her.
Quote #2
"Guess he's been in Starkfield too many winters." (Prologue.9)
The novella makes a strong argument that something in the very land is holding Ethan back. That's why we think that Starkfield is, among other things, a symbol of anything that can hold a person back from self expression and enjoyment of life.
Quote #3
To him, who was never gay but in her presence, her gaiety seemed plain proof of indifference. (1.13)
Ethan's happiness is so repressed that he can only let things out when he's around Mattie. Because he is currently keeping himself from expressing his love to her, he can't ask about her love for him, so of course he will feel jealous and isolated from her when he sees her frolicking with Denis.
Quote #4
A moment ago he had wondered what he and Mattie were to live on when they reached the West; now he saw that he had not even the money to take her there. (8.9)
Ethan lets a combination of poverty and morality stop him from following his dreams. Everywhere he turns he sees obstacles.
Quote #5
"I want you should stay here this afternoon, Ethan," his wife said. "Jotham can drive Mattie over." (9.29)
Ethan isn't about to be pushed down this time. He flatly defies Zeena here. We feel as surge of freedom when he does, but we still have a feeling that it will all end in doom and destruction.
Quote #6
"Yes, it's pretty bad, seeing all three of them there together." (Epilogue.18)
The ultimate scene of repression, isolation, and confinement. Unless Zeena is somehow enjoying having Mattie and Ethan under her control, or unless Mattie and Ethan are still in love and are just happy to be together, then the hopes and dreams and desires of all involved are being totally ruined.