1. Internal Conflict in the Protagonist:
* Logical vs. Emotional: The main character, the narrator, is a staunch believer in logic and reason. He prides himself on his intellect and analytical skills. However, he finds himself falling for Polly, a woman who embodies the opposite of his logical approach to life. This conflict between his logical principles and his growing feelings for Polly creates an internal struggle within him.
2. External Conflict with Polly:
* Different Values: Polly represents the anti-logical, spontaneous, and intuitive side of life. She is impulsive and relies heavily on her emotions, leading to constant clashes with the narrator's logical nature. This contrast in their approaches to life creates an external conflict between them.
3. Conflict with the Narrator's Friends:
* Unconventional Romance: The narrator's friends, particularly Barnaby, are equally as logical and see Polly as an unsuitable match for him. They try to dissuade him from pursuing her, further adding to the external conflict.
4. Conflict with the Narrator's Goal:
* Finding a Logical Partner: The narrator initially wanted to find a wife based on logical factors like intelligence, social status, and good genes. He was actively seeking a partner who would be a "logical" match for him. However, Polly's influence and his growing feelings threaten this goal.
5. Conflict with the Narrator's Self-Image:
* Logical Perfection: The narrator is obsessed with maintaining his reputation as a rational and logical being. He sees Polly's influence as potentially compromising this image, leading to an internal conflict over his self-identity.
Overall, the story explores the inherent struggle between logic and emotion, highlighting how even the most ardent advocates of reason can be swayed by the power of love.