How is the story a commentary on the relationship and/or struggle between regionalism/localism (as represented by, for example, Miss Ivors, who is very pro-Irish) and cosmopolitanism (as represented by Gabriel, who tries to be more European and at one point says he is sick of Ireland)?
The story is a commentary on the relationship between regionalism and cosmopolitanism because the protagonist, Gabriel and Miss Ivors who is pro-Irish have extremely different perspectives on their country. “And haven’t you your own land to visit,” continued Miss Ivors, “that you know nothing of, your own people, and your own country?” Miss Ivors believes that Gabriel should stay and learn more about Ireland rather than planning vacations elsewhere. However, Gabriel replies that he is sick of his own country and even claims that Irish is not his language. As Miss Ivors criticizes Gabriel for his lack of interest in Irish culture and politics, their conversation becomes tense. She even calls him a “West Briton” who is a supporter of English rule. Due to the dispute between these two characters and the ways they perceive their own country, customs, and language, Gabriel is unable to get along well with Miss Ivors.