These chapters in Edith Wharton's The House of Mirth appear to be the major turning point for Lily. Up until now, Lily's largest concern has been how to secure her finances for the future or repay her debts. Now, however, she must be satisfied merely with survival. She is unable to marry into wealth, for Rosedale rejects her due to the drama regarding her and Mr. Dorset. She has no family, no marriage prospects, and looming debt. For the first time, Lily's worries are larger then simply lacking the lastest fashinonable dress. She is in serious danger of losing her apartment, and has few places she can go. No longer can she keep up the illusion that had been failing for months, that she belonged with the rich and powerful. Perhaps by birth or beauty she did, but that lifestyle came with a price Lily pays "by going to the best dress-makers, and having just the right dress for every occasion..." (Wharton, 216). And she could no longer afford to pay.
However, Lily seeks out work for herself, which I consider a major turning point for her as a character. Throughout the novel Lily has sought out others to financial support her. Now, she will do it herself.
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