In Frankenstein, the reader finds out that Walton, adventurous captain of a ship, “desire[s] the company of a man who could sympathize with me” (4). Although muddled by lavish words, Walton just wants a friend to talk to, to relate to. There have been at times where even though I am surrounded by people, I feel utterly alone. Without someone to connect to, it only drives his feeling of loneliness forward. Because of his loneliness, he writes to his sister, regardless if she writes back.
In the letter II for Frankenstein, Robert Walton signs off to his sister. Since he is lonely, he gravitates even more toward his beloved sister, who he has possibly left behind for good. He writes, “I may receive your letters on some occasions when I need them most to support my spirits. I love you very tenderly. Remember me with affection, should you never hear from me again” (6). When I read this line, I felt a sense of longing. He’s optimistic of his journey, but he realizes there’s a chance he could die. With this in mind, he wants to let his sister know how much he cares about her. Although I haven’t put my life in danger, I can relate to the love felt between siblings, as I have a younger sister. And if I were to travel on a long journey, I may feel the same. He also ends his letters with affection, to reinforce his love for his sister.
In letter III, he signs off to his sister by stating, “My swelling heart involuntarily pours itself out thus… Heaven bless my beloved sister!” (7) His admiration for his sister begins to foreshadow tragedy. For the author to include one moment of appreciation for Walton’s sister is understandable. But to hear it more than once, leaves the reader uneasy. For the readers who have siblings, it evokes the sense of tender love one feels for heir own brother or sister. Knowing how the story progresses, and the set up of the situation, instills a sense of uneasiness. Will something happen to his sister? Will he become distant with her? For if something horrible would be bestowed onto Walton’s sister, the reader would now have a deeper attachment for the character.
After this set up of Walton’s character, the reader’s mind sympathizes with him. Instead of viewing him as a reckless adventurer, the readers identify with his loneliness and longing of friendship. In addition, they may relate to the sibling love displayed within the letters.
Ink Blot Thoughts 
I liked how you made connections between you and the text, but also helped the reader make connections with you and with the text. I think it would have been helpful if you gave a small anecdote or story about yourself to make it more personal and provide an example of how this connection applies to you in your life.
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This also made me make a connection with my older sister. I really like how you explained the feeling of longing and optimism that Walton felt. I agree with your point that he is optimistic about his journey, but, I also think in his optimism there is a hint of reassurance for him and his sister.
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