The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall (Chapter by chapter summary)

 

SECTION 1

 

Chapter 1

Chapter 1 brings forward the basic relationships of Stephen with his mother and father even before he is brought out in to the world. His parents expect a boy but instead Stephen is a girl. The mishap of the name also stems from this premonition of the baby being expected to be a boy. In the early 1900s when this was written I guess it was of a necessity to have a backstory as to the reason for Stephen being this "queer" kid.

 

The physical resemblance of Stephen to that of her father more than the angelic mother Anna is also emphasized and this chapter also sets forward the idea that Stephen and mom do not actually get together well and that there is some sort of inexplicable barrier between them. It seems to somewhat be attributed to the fact that Stephen and Sir Philip are similar in appearance as well. Stephen is an only child to the household and thus the shattered dreams and disappointment in both Sir Philip and lady Anna is apparent. However, Sir Philip seems to have a great liking to Stephen keeping aside the fact that he was hoping it would be a boy.

 

Stephen is portrayed as a complicated character in her own mind with weird tantrums and her own way of getting back at the world.  "In some vague, childish way she had hit back at life, and this fact had restored her self-respect.".

 

Chapter 2

 

This chapter actually brings about a lot on the character of Stephen as a whole and describes in its own way the feeling of falling in love. Collins is portrayed as one major crush of Stephen's. At the age of 7 there is almost a limit to the notion of 'love'. It's also wonderful in the sense that this seven year old girl do not understand that this seems to be outside the norm of the then culture.

 

Her acts of 'head over heels' love is seen in the need to impress the house maid Collins by polishing her nails thoroughly, in dressing up as Nelson and praying to god and hoping the housemaid's knees of Collins will be cured. She states that she understands the act of Jesus to be punished for their sins stating that it seemed to be no big deal and she herself would willingly do that to herself if the party in question was this pretty housemaid. Stephen dreams of scenarios where she and Collins would be living together in a cottage and imagines them having conversations as well.

 

However, the perspective of the maid and nurse is also shown. Unintentionally Collins seem to be showing love and caring to Stephen because of the praying to god on her behalf and she feels some sort of attraction.

"she could not but feel a new interest in the child whom she and the cook had now labelled as ‘queer’"

 

The final climax to the scene is when a footman arrives to the house and apparently falls in love with Collins and even though Stephen is too young to understand it. The extreme jealousy is displayed with an act of violence.

 

It is then the story shifts to the relationship between father and daughter where Sir Philip is portrayed to read the works of the German writer Karl Heinrich Ulrichs who is a pioneer in the gay rights movement in the late 1800s. It seems as if Sir Philip senses the difference of Stephen from the other girls of her age and tries to put himself into her shoes. At one instance Stephen asks "‘Do you think that I could be a man, supposing I thought very hard – or prayed, Father?’". It seems to be a father daughter moment where unknowingly Stephen bestows a part of deeper emotions to the one person she trusts the most. And in turn he is sympathetic with the actions of Stephen but encourages her to come and speak to him in any other future issues.

 

Chapter 3

 

Starting out with the grieving for a crush this describes Stephen's effort to keep all the emotions intact without going to her father for support hinting a subtle bravery and the characteristics that would prove to be useful in the future endeavors. Collins is replaced by another maid who is in the eyes of Stephen utterly ugly in relation to Collins. Stephen willingly makes things difficult to the new maid and recognizes her mishaps while weeping and praying.

 

Anna who do not understand the grieving of her daughter tries to bond with her. But the entirety of the relationship is already flawed because Stephen feels the contempt in her mother's mind. However, in rare moments the two would seemingly connect with the subtle reactions to the surrounding environment (the meadows, the gardens).  The manly characteristics of Stephen are furthermore portrayed by the protective nature she holds towards her mother when they go out.

 

Their home Morton is also distinctively resembled as a place which has the roots of Stephen where it would always be 'home' but also with a hint of lonesome, unwanted feeling. These attributes that seem to be at opposite ends seem to come from the different viewpoint of Stephen towards her father and mother. Father resembles the homeliness whilst the lonesome, unwanted feeling is directed towards her mother's conduct.

 

Chapter 4

 

Stephen identifies that crushes fade. And as any small kid would do the focus is shifted into a pony. It is named Collins as Stephen's one last effort to keep the memory of Collins alive.

 

The focus turns to Major Antrim's meet. Stephen rides the pony astride not side saddle. It is in this moment that Stephen is somewhat exposed to the norms that were quite different to girls and boys. But Stephen manages to convince that she cannot side saddle hence the requirement to ride astride amidst major scorn. The particular moment is important because before that Stephen is proud of herself of riding astride because she could be happy by just being herself without having to dress up as Nelson. But with the scorn of Major Antrim it again converted to something that she was just pretending. Because she felt self-conscious, and less impressive to her own self. This is the pressure that is being put on by the society when the societal norms are challenged.

 

In this chapter a passion of Stephen's is developed overtaking the one she had for Collins the maid. She wins the meet and collects her first trophy with Collins. She feels proud of herself and happy. But when Sir Philip asks whether she is happy she answers;

‘I’m dreadfully happy, Father. I’m so dreadfully happy that it makes me feel frightened, cause I mayn’t always last happy – not this way.’

 

Chapter 5

 

The contrast of Stephen from a typical same aged girl violet is portrayed. By the descriptions we can see that Stephen has a better endurance to teasing and is free of maintaining a ladylike persona. Due to this reason Roger's ego is hurt and he in turn tries to bully Stephen. This is not the first time that Stephen spends in the company of Violet and Roger and therefore, even before going to the Antrim Household Stephen regrets it.

 

Stephen seems to be a hugely self-conscious kid with a lot of insecurity.  She knows the way she is choosing is not the 'normal'  way. The way Roger tries to reel in Stephen is quite similar to the various fights and arguments in any household. But the epitome of the scene is when Roger says "I don't fight with girls!". Stephen is almost a shell of a person in a place where she feels as if she doesn't belong. Stephen's breakdown at home portrays the fact that Sir Philip knows what is going on through Stephen's mind but he withholds the information from Anna because it might hurt her and in doing so does a great injustice to Stephen. It is then decided by the parents to employ a French governess to have a better education which her father thinks would help her in the coming years.

 

Chapter 6

 

The introduction of Mademoiselle Dupont and her regime as well as the gymnastics and fencing regime. These appear to be two  opposite ventures that Stephen can deal with. Her choosing to embrace fencing can be considered as one of the paths that she choose in life. We are shown a little bit into the strengths of Stephen's life. Riding, French, and Fencing. Sir Philip then goes into greater depths to bring a thoroughbred horse 'Raftery'.

 

The simple expressions the welling up of tears in Stephen's eyes when she says "But I'm not your son father" explicitly shows the emotions that Stephen go through as a young girl who wants to be the son her father never had. Sir Philip wants to teach Stephen and let her have all the opportunities a son would have had. He plans on giving her the chance to attend Oxford and hence as a result of wanting to get further education Mademoiselle Dupont goes back to France.

 

Sir Philips character shows a great progressiveness which is quite ahead of its time.

 

Chapter 7  (around 17/ 18 years old?)

 

Changes… Changes in life. Miss Puddleton arrives as a tutor and Sir Philip buys a motor car.

 

The decision to buy a motor car in a much conservative neighborhood that abstains from new innovations and technology further sets the role of Sir Philip as a person who is vastly open minded in a much narrow minded society. This open mindedness is what allows him to accept Stephen's difference in life and to embrace it. In view of the motor car Anna has strict reservations showing her close knitted mind with the surrounding socio-cultural norms. Seemingly opposite to Anna and as open minded as can be is Stephen who enjoys the motor car and new progressions.

 

Puddle's arrival is described in this chapter as a whirlwind. There is an immense change over in the ambiance of the surrounding and Puddle is finally able to tame her student and make her involved in the art of education. She allows Stephen to develop her mind without making any remark on the development of the psych. It is also during this period that Stephen learns that there is great pleasure in writing. It also hints a little bit to the notion that Puddle senses the difference of Stephen over other girls and thinks to herself that Stephen is up against the world even without her knowing. It seems to be said in great loyalty to her student.

 

A very important piece of conversation is between Stephen and Raftery,

"it's very important to develop the brain because that gives you an advantage over people, it makes you more able to do as you like in this world, to conquer conditions, Raftery"  But the writer adds that Raftery feels that Stephen was missing the truth. What must the writer be meaning?

 

Chapter 8

 

This chapter places Stephen in weird social situations like parties, and dinners of the county. Everything seem to constrict Stephen beyond her comfortable circle. The people, the attire and the persona that she is supposed to put up takes a huge toll on Stephen. She is hugely bored by the gossips and talk of the ladies of her age and fed up with the courteousness of the men. The men in turn senses a boldness which is quite unlikely in these times with women and as a result they are defensive and resentful. Of course they are into the more submissive, shy type.

 

Stephen is more and more pushed into her own shell in these social scenarios.

 

Chapter 9

 

Separate scene unfolds when the bond between father and daughter escalates with their love for books. Sir Philip feels that Stephen has an ambition of becoming a writer. The long hours the two spend together sends a pang of jealousy through Anna who seems to be not educated but that is what had attracted Sir Philip to her in the first place.

 

Complications arise between Sir Philip and Anna. Meanwhile Stephen attributes to the love between her parents as a symbol of perfect fulfillment. Something that was ideal. Something deep in her own mind she could not imagine to experience.  She speaks about it as "The one perfect thing about me".

 

This chapter goes on about the innermost thoughts of Stephen as she thinks about the life of her parents before her. The youth, their love, marriage. It is almost as if Stephen imagines these things for herself but weirdly in a man's perspective. About how the wife walks through the halls for the first time and how the experience is. She also recognizes the deep sorrow that embodies her father and almost seems to realize that he isn't carrying his own burden but someone else's. The writer gives us the reader to connect the dots.

 

Chapter 10

 

18th birthday and Christmas. At the Atriums dinner and dance Stephen meets Martin Hallam who would later in the story become a noteworthy character. He and Stephen seem to understand each other and enjoy spending time together. Not in a romantic way but in deep respect and comradery.

 

Chapter 11

 

Martin and Stephen grow closer to each other. They both love riding, the nature and Sir Philip and Anna are also quite positive about his influence on Stephen. Martin is in awe with trees and forests. He talks about them extensively and Stephen listens and tries to understand and continues discussion. They talk about things that they hold dear to their lives without any shyness. They seem to be the odd people totally detached from societal norms.

 

The people alluded their apparent friendship as one of a romantic nature that was yet unidentified. Anna goes as far as making plans and imaginations in her own mind as to the future of Stephen. Sir Philip prays to god that his initial premonitions are wrong.

 

The turning point occurs when the friendship is slowly converted to love in Martin's eyes. He hasn't loved before much less have a connection with a woman. It all comes as a revelation and he does not stop to think that it might not be the same way for Stephen. The declaration of love strikes as a blow to Stephen who never considers him as a lover. Martin is left to deal with his own mind stunned at her reaction to his love and he returns back to Canada.

 

Chapter 12

 

The declaration of love by Martin leads to some self-realizations of Stephen. She starts to think why she was as repulsed to reject Martin and ponders whether the whole friendship had been in fact a ruse. She starts to question "What was she?" The term what shows the clear attribution to a feeling of something that is inhuman. That is beyond normal. She revisits her younger self when she dressed up as Young Nelson. She remembers Collins the housemaid. How she wanted to save her from the pain without any repugnance towards her. She feels alone and different from everything that is around her. She feels the repugnance was not only towards Martin but that it poses a greater and wider question than that. 

 

She finally approaches her father in search of answers. But even as she said the details she openly said about how Martin failed her as a friend and not about how she 'failed' martin as a lover. Because that is what she felt. She felt that her inability to love him was a failure. And then the million dollar question : "Father is there anything strange about me?" All her father could say was that there was nothing wrong with her and that someday she will find a man that she would love. He understands. True, but how can he say something so revolutionary without then having to second guess that it was he who had put the idea into her head. He had to wait for Stephen to realize.

 

The important thing to note is that even though Stephen knows that there are several differences between her and the other girls she never attributes to the concept of homosexuality. How could she come into terms with something that was looked upon in disgust and try to normalize the situation in the ages of early 1900s.

 

Chapter 13

 

Moments of indecisiveness follow Stephen. With Martin she had been somewhat accepted back into the hugely conservative society but that had left abruptly with Martin. Stephen for a simple moment wishes that she could have married him. Stephen in a way understands the way the society feels about her. About how the role of the woman in the society and how it had come down the years and she knows what is expected of her. She understands it because she is also a part of the community, but she is just different.

 

Then the thing that Stephen very much fears comes into play. The resentment between her parents over her issues. Anna is convinced that there is no life to a woman without marriage and to this Sir Philip states Miss Puddle as an example who is well learned, and self-sufficient. He wants to send Stephen to Oxford. In Anna's point of view it seems only rational that the marriage of one's child to become her responsibility. In the sense Sir Philip is immune to the gossips and talk of the community where as in decisions like these Anna must suffer.

 

In this chapter a revelation of puddle's involvement can be seen. Puddle herself is a learned person must be exposed to things that are out of the convention. As a result Puddle has already connected the dots on who Stephen is and suspects that Sir Philip knows as well. It is also hinted that there might be somewhat of a past to the character of Puddle as well. She has walked the path of Stephen before her.

 

Sir Philip realizes that it is due time to tell Anna the truth about Stephen but he quite simply can't make up his mind.

 

Chapter 14

 

The final chapter of book 1 and one of the key moments of the whole story. The death of Sir Philip. One of the tear rending scenes of the story. This chapter does not dwell into the aftermath of the death of Sir Philip and how it affects Stephen. The death in turn is enough for the reader to feel the loss of the only person that understood Stephen. And still Anna doesn't know.

 

SECTION 2

 

Chapter 15

 

Starting off from a very low point of entry (the death of Sir Philip) we are shown the levels of coping by both Anna and Stephen. Anna had lost her life-long lover. Stephen was suddenly aware how much she took for granted the strength of her father who  shielded her from the enormous backlash of the society. She feels indifferent towards all things that held her passion including riding.

 

With an effort back at normalcy, she goes to a meet where she is now treated with the sort of sympathy one would expect. She however feels the constant absence of her father who always stood as a barrier between her and the world. Whilst hunting she feels an unfamiliar sense of mercy driven by the analogy that 'the whole world is hunting her' and is shown by the line;

"If we find, this morning, there’ll be two of us who are utterly alone, with every man’s hand against us."

 

This describes the desperation within her and after the hunt she decides that she is done with hunting. The writer describes this feeling as 'in death her father has gifted her the attribute of mercy. One he didn't have himself'.

 

This chapter takes the reader through the great transformation of Stephen's mind. The sense of loss and uncertainty. "Every man's hand against us".

 

The bond between Raftery and Stephen has deepened and one seem to understand the other in an unfathomable way. It shows how we connect with souls rather than particular people. Now Stephen envisions life in a different way. She has lived through great sorrow. 

 

Chapter 16 (21 years old)

 

In this chapter we see Stephen moving on from the despairs of losing her father and trying to get back into the new normal lifestyle. In this journey the readers are introduced to Angela Crossby. This is seemingly the second love interest of Stephen's after the crush for Collins when she was as small as 7 years old. It seems to be a spark at first sight and unlike other narratives we see the writer describing Angela as an object of desire in the eyes of Stephen.

 

Angela had definitely heard about Stephen from the county gossip and she says that she is finally glad to have met Stephen. In retrospect Stephen had heard about Angela too. Angela is a stage actress from America and with her background she is not received well within the community which holds a great position for aristocrats. Stephen, as expected does not give too much into these societal standards and of course she seem to be struck by an invisible force unfathomable even to herself in a way.

 

Chapter 17

 

After the first meeting with Angela, Stephen drives over to 'the Grange' as a visitation. The chapter is an account of this visit, the awkwardness of Stephen and the manner of Angela where she tries to get to know more about Stephen. Readers are left with the query as to whether Angela herself understands these feelings. The aftermath of the meetup is exuberant to Stephen, she notices a calm peacefulness at Morton in contrast to the turbulent emotions within herself.

 

Angela on the other hand is this wife of a recognized aristocrat, who is bored with the lifestyle and engages with this seemingly different person. As the writer says:

"And because she was idle, discontented and bored, and certainly not over-burdened with virtue, she must let her thoughts dwell unduly on this girl, while her curiosity kept pace with her thoughts. "

 

Chapter 18

 

Stephen shows Angela the one thing she holds dear to her heart. Morton. Morton seems to be Stephens sanctuary and in showing it to Angela who is the innermost desire of Stephen we can see the emotional build up within her. She is overtaken by this invidious feeling within her that she has no control over. Neither the societal norms nor her own understanding comes in par with this feeling as she expresses her love for Angela.

 

When Stephen shows Morton to Angela she envisions her in it which is clearly a fantasy she has been building up in her mind to which Angela rightly responds as "I don't think I'd fit in here" which for me shows that at that moment Angela and Stephen are in different pages of the same book. But Angela is overcome with her initial boredom so she gives in to her curiosity with very little to lose because of her own married status.

 

This moment is of significance because it is right at this moment Stephen acts upon everything that has been holding her back. All the differences with the other people that only her father could understand comes into action. Up to now her actions did not give away all the turbulent thoughts within her mind but all the build-up is finally released as Stephen kisses Angela.

 

Chapter 19

 

 Once the initial flare is over both of them are faced with the realness of their situation. Stephen totally in love with Angela so as to even give up Morton to go with her far away from here, but Angela not willing to give the life of luxury and security which was very much needed and a life of normalcy.

 

In this chapter we are able to see the real characters as they are. Angela bored of her life looking for some excitement and Stephen vulnerable in the face of love willing to sabotage everything she holds dear.

 

Angela asks "Could you marry me, Stephen?" This question would resonate and inculcate the situation as it is for a lesbian lover who strives to give all the love and affection to that one special someone but is bounded by the vicarious norms of the society. Stephen cannot marry Angela. She is unable to provide that security and in this way she fails.

 

Chapter 20

 

This chapter unravels an encounter with both Ralph (the husband of Angela) and Angela herself together with Stephen. Ralph is forced in to this unfamiliar territory where he feels Stephen's intentions towards Angela. But he seemingly tries to put up a better face in the encounter which he later seems to regret.

 

The previous encounter with Angela left Stephen distraught which was visible to Puddle as 'something was wrong' but Stephen never comes to her or confides in her. Puddle understands her and the writer hints as if she has trodden down the same road before. She also understand that Stephen has fallen for someone who is just in the need of excitement and no care for Stephen

 

Chapter 21

 

We are able to witness how distance affects the two lovers when Stephen accompanies her mother to Cornwall and Angela goes with her husband to Scotland. We can see the growing agitation of Stephen when Angela do not communicate in writing as she would do in person. In a previous chapter it was said that "The spoken word perishes, but the written word remains" and this was said by Angela. So, Angela is seemingly distant and Stephen is more and more disturbed.

 

The writer also expresses the distance between the mother and daughter. Even though they are thrown together in this situation they are unable to penetrate the former barrier between them and in one scene it is as if Stephen really wants to but Anna is not interested.

 

Chapter 22

 

Stephen returns back home. She is reunited with Raftery who sees her as a God. A god in human form. The wonderful bond that they share is beautifully portrayed. Collins is now old and feeble. Stephen tries to approach it but it is now pushed towards its own bubble and has to be left alone for itself. It resembles the circle of life. The circle of life is also depicted by Stephen's visit to Williams house. (William was in charge of the stables before he retired) He lives in a cottage with his old wife who are waiting for the circle to complete.

 

Chapter 23

 

Violet Antrim once again comes into the scene when she comes back after meeting Angela who was in Scotland. She says that Angela is a man-mad person who is used to making use of people. She also says that she has the likes for Roger. Stephen feels devastated and demoralized sends a telegram asking Angela to come at once. It was an impulsive thing to do and Angela replies that Ralph is very upset about the telegraph.

 

Angela finally returns home and Stephen returns home. From the discussions it seems to be clear for the reader that Angela has come to the sense about her feelings and now feels a compassion towards Stephen for leading her on knowingly that this would not go anywhere. She says it to Stephen who is still blinded in love doesn't really seem to understand. In fact she says that she was terribly lonely and as a result had allowed Stephen to come into her life. She had encountered a passion towards Roger Antrim and she feels this desire and remorse for her actions but she knows that she is not able to cope up with her feelings for Roger. But still she does not let go of Stephen.

 

Angela says her life story and why she is madly attached to the loveless life with Ralph. She portrays a story of poverty during her young years stating that she never wants to be powerless again and considered worse than scum by the society. She holds on to the life that she's got in fear of going back to the life of her past without much security. The reader is forced to believe the story however in retrospect, this can very well be a part of untruth as well. Stephen is deeply moved by the past of this angelic creature and it increases the bond between them in a way.

 

Chapter 24

 

Stephen finally comes in terms with the fact that Angela is torn between feelings for Roger as well as her. She receives letters from Roger and they evidently spends lots of time together. Ralph in the meantime loath the both of them but is united with Roger in the sense of disgust when it came to be about Stephen.

Stephen loathes herself. Her body and mind alike for not being a man.

 

Chapter 25

 

The desperation in Stephen can be seen to increase and we can see very clearly Angela's intentions from this chapter. Both of them are in deep longings but separate ones at that. Stephen longs to be in this haze of a relationship with Angela but her mind seems to be elsewhere. Also it is hinted that Angela uses Stephen as a kind of excuse to hide the feelings of Roger in her from her husband. This whole thing is Freudian nightmare in the sense that Angela is playing with the feelings of Stephen knowingly. A part of Stephen seems to know this as well.

 

Chapter 26

 

The ultimatum is reached. Stephen discovers Angela with Roger. She feels devastated but almost insane with the feeling of betrayal. She writes a letter to Angela stating her love and in admits the freakish nature of herself alluding to herself as god's mistake.

 

"The spoken word perishes, but the written word remains" Angela is vindictive from the letter from Stephen. It's as if she has declared some kind of unwanted love. Angela hands over the letter to her husband and states that she never had any involvement of that kind. She also makes it her opportunity to state that there was nothing going on between her and Roger but she was distraught due to the problems imposed by Stephen.

 

She in turn finds her salvation whilst dragging over hell over to Stephen.

 

Chapter 27

 

All hell breaks loose at Morton when Anna receives a letter from Ralph together with the letter sent to Angela. Anna is repulsed with the association  of love to which she apprehends is carnal pleasures and lust. Stephen tries to convince her mother of her love but failing miserably. Stephen who is a broken shell is asked to leave Morton. It is impossible for Anna to come in realization with the actions and mind of her daughter.

 

It is then that Stephen retreats to her salvation, her father's study. Here she discovers the books that her father followed to understand her actions. She finally knows that her father knows who she is. Puddle also comes clean about her past stating that she has suffered what Stephen is suffering and that she must channel all these emotions towards something that can influence thousands who are like her.

 

SECTION 3

 

Chapter 28 (23/ 24 years old)

 

Now we locate Stephen away from Morton (which was her place of refuge), at London with a view of the river. She is an accomplished writer of the book 'The Furrow' which is set at a very high standard and at the present she is working on her second book.

 

A clear understanding is given to the reader about her current relationship with her mother, the relocation from Morton to London and visitations to Morton twice every year. Raftery is also brought back to London and placing a hunting spirit of an animal in a city area clearly depicts the mentality that surrounds Stephen who is indeed a part of Morton being displaced to the city

 

Puddle manages the household, and Stephen as well in the process of writing the second book which she considers to be a failure because she is missing a huge part of life in the form of 'Love'. She states that she is unable to pen something she hasn't actually gone through to which Puddle is rendered speechless.

 

Chapter 29

 

Another desolate chapter of tragedy. Stephen must part with another dear friend, Raftery. Stephen goes into great lengths to make Raftery's final day, a day at Morton and to spare him the pain and suffering. For Raftery, Stephen is god and there is nothing to forgive. He takes what she gives willingly and he is shot in a place in the Morton countryside.

 

With Raftery gone it is as if she ends all ties with Morton. Morton to her is one huge tragedy and she wants to put it past her and to move on. 

 

Chapter 30

 

The readers are introduced to Jonathan Brockett. In all means, Brockett is portrayed as a person with a lot emotions, who looks into the emotions of others and puts oneself upon the company of others sometimes even at the extent of force. He always seems to get his own way of mind. Stephen describes him as having soft hands and funnily enough feels some sort of mild disgust in her own way for Brockett when she first meets him. But with time, even though he overuses the hospitality, he becomes brutally honest about the failure of Stephen's second book and suggests that Stephen move with people more and go into the society to write on the flesh and blood of others. He suggests that Stephen should put space between her and England.

 

This makes Stephen consider the prospect of changing scenes to see if it would help in the writing process. She attributes the liveliness of her first book to the deep feelings of her heart that was alive with the brutality of the actions of Angela Crossby. She visits the pain and sorrow of being asked to move out of Morton and attributes the success of her first book to these tragic moments and events of her life.

 

Ultimately, she decides to travel abroad.

 

Chapter 31

 

Puddle and Stephen arrive at Paris and stays at a hotel which is recommended by Brockett. He also takes the pleasure of showing the important sights of Paris and their stories as well. Brockett is amazed by Stephen's character. He himself knows that he is an 'invert' which is the term used during that time to people of other sexual persuasions.

 

Brockett is impressed and amazed at Stephen's character. Interesting note on the writing is that often in these characters we are taken inside their minds. But in the case of Brockett it is mainly in the viewpoint of either Stephen or Puddle he is described. He is kept in a sort of mystery.

 

It is Brockett that introduces Stephen to Valerie Seymour. Valerie is sort of dignified person within the art circles in an age just over her 30s. In his introduction to Valerie, she is a portrayal of beauty, one with whom men fell in love with, but she wasn't attracted to men. And thus Brockett was very interested and excited about their meeting.

 

When she first meets her the familiar sentence is uttered by Valerie. "I'm so delighted to meet you at last" This was also uttered by Angela at their first meeting. Brockett and Valerie embark on stories of people that Stephen actually doesn't know in an effort to make her comfortable in her own skin. Comfortable about who she is.

 

Valerie does indeed make a successful impression on Stephen and she also suggests making a home in Paris and gives some of her contacts as well. Stephen decides to stay longer in Paris somewhat permanently.

 

It is now little by little with the company of Brockett and Valerie that Stephen comes to a situation of engaging with people. She was altogether by herself in London but now she is exposed to this whole world where she is not the only one who seems out of place.

 

Chapter 32 (27 years old)

 

Stephen starts to settle down in Paris after renovating a house she brought. Everything about the renovations excites her. With the approach of Christmas she is taken back in memory to the time in Morton, to the times she was a kid. It is shown how Stephen little by little tries to settle down in normalcy here in France.

 

Chapter 33

 

Stephen continues to write her book of which she is satisfied. She now engages in fencing and walking around the streets of Paris. It is then that she meets Mademoiselle Dupont. Dupont was the governess before Puddle came to her life. The two are two worlds apart. Dupont is portrayed as the symbol of innocence where nothing around her has taken a path different from what the god intended.

 

Dupont is now the only friends Stephen has in France because Valerie and Brockett both are busy with their own activities.

 

Chapter 34

 

First world war. Two years into the start of the war. Stephen dreadfully needs to go to the war front but her many schemes seemed to have failed. She has joined the London Ambulance Column where she was entrusted with the driving of the wounded to hospitals. This chapter describes the desolation in her mind because she can't go to the war front whereas the men (Even men like Brockett) can. She is initially scared that she would not be wanted because of her inability to nurse and treat the wounded. But she is entrusted with the ambulance column where she can be of service.

 

SECTION 4

 

Chapter 35

 

(1918) - Stephen now has joined the Breakspear Unit which comprises of English women who are stationed in France serving for the French Army Ambulance Corps. She is finally in the verge of battleground in Compiegne. Before being recruited she had gone to Morton once. The writer describes Morton as "Changed and yet so changeless." All the things that were familiar in Morton has changed in the few years she was away due to the war many lives were lost and what was left time had taken over. The mother and daughter now has a chance reconcile  but the memory of the meeting in the room is too much for Stephen but she promises to write back. She also asks Puddle to go to Morton and look after the proceedings of her mother who is now in very fragile state. It is a hugely generous act on her part when there is no love between them anymore but the gratitude for blood and flesh, in return for her love to her father she protects her mother at all costs.

 

 Now the readers are introduced to Mary Llewellyn the latest recruit to the Breakspear Unit. She is introduced as a fragile person who is seemingly unsuitable to the treachery of the war but given the circumstances even the light headed were to be recruited. She is assigned as Stephen's assistant driver. In a gruesome scene Mary and Stephen together are assigned to bring back the wounded to the hospital. Stephen feels a protectiveness towards Mary in the very moments and we are brought in to light a hint of another love interest.

 

Chapter 36

 

Even though Mary was introduced as a fragile person with the seemingly explained past she appears to be one with pluck, courage and determination. She would as the assistant driver to Stephen go on to the front with her and in doing so get to work strenuous hours. Meanwhile they would talk about their histories, the times before of the war. Stephen has taken quite a liking to Mary and would even read out letters from home to her.

 

With time though. The head of the unit takes the matter into her hand and changes the way the work was carried out so that Mary got to spend other crew members as well. However, this only made Mary and Stephen to cherish the times they spend  together.

 

It was after Stephen receives the honor of Croix de Guerre, that Mary speaks out. Mary apparently says that all her life she had been waiting to find something and it is Stephen. For the first time we can see that Stephen's feelings are reciprocated back to her with utter selflessness.

 

Chapter 37

 

The war ends with Armistice. And Stephen together with Mary returns to their home in Paris. The old Stephen would be ardent with joy with the prospect of being together with someone you loved. But Stephen wasn't young and naïve any more. She constantly thinks about the prospectus before her. She decides to send Mary back to her Celtic home whilst she visit Anna and Puddle in Morton.

 

She considers that in choosing the path she would maim the innocence of Mary at the age of 22. Selfless thinking with all the experience of her lifetime. She knows the consequences of this life style and she was ready to face all of these but was Mary ready? And does Mary deserve it? She knows she can't protect Mary from the grotesque persecution they will face. She can only love and hope that shields her. But she is in dispute with herself of what she is doing to Mary.

 

She tells Puddle of Mary as a companion she met at the war front but Puddle knowing Stephen suspects more. However she refrains from asking about it but when Stephen asks her if she would be coming back to Paris she says that she would stay and take care of Lady Anna.

 

Chapter 38

 

Stephen and Mary leave to Orotova, in Spain. They reside in a beautiful Villa. With time Mary regains her composure and strength and they spend their days together. However, Stephen is terrified of what she is getting Mary into. Now more than ever she is conscious. Mary interprets this as hate and she thinks that Stephen ignores her because she had brought her to Spain out of pity, because she asked. Stephen then has to explain all the problems one might face, the averse opinions of the social construct and how she is too young to be cast off.

 

It is then that Mary says that she is willing to face all these things together with Stephen.

 

Chapter 39

 

The rest of the days were spent with love for each other. The days flew by. And they could only utter foolish promises to each other in the expression of love for each other. Stephen feels as if finally both of them aren't outcasts anymore. They were just two people in love.

 

SECTION 5

 

Chapter 40

 

It is life after war in Paris. Everything is starting to get back to normal as much as possible amidst the shortages in food. Life is seemingly different to Stephen now that her worries were voiced to Mary. They would go on shopping sprees and Stephen would buy whatever Mary wanted to keep her happy.

 

Brockett also visits their home once out of the blue and quickly analyses and understands the situation. She sincerely wishes that Stephen stays happy. We are taken into the world that Stephen and Mary build for themselves little by little.

 

Chapter 41

 

It is during this period that Mary is brought face to face with all the travesties that Stephen very rightly try to explain. Stephen was called back to Morton without the invitation extended to Mary. Stephen feels a pang of disappointment while understanding the repugnance of the mother who exiled her from Morton years ago. But she does not have the heart to explain these feelings of repugnance to Mary. She feels that she must keep Mary sheltered from the travesties of the society as much as she could.

 

Chapter 42

 

But Mary is no fool. She understands the decision that led Stephen to leave her in Paris and go back to England but she is brought to face with the feeling that both of them are exiles from their own communities and they are frowned upon. She knows how important Morton is for Stephen and is deeply saddened that she isn't allowed to share it with her. She silently craves inside her heart for the security, peace and honor, goodwill of neighbors and a love that is proud of its existence. All that was missing in the love she has for Stephen. And all that Stephen tried to explain to her. But all these cravings were minute with her immense love for Stephen and in that sense Mary was able to conquer her very first battle.

 

Chapter 43

 

Stephen, now back from Morton considers that for the sake of Mary she must write and build a refuge by being a person of importance. She got it into her mind that it was the only way she could provide some sort of security, some sort of validation to the most sacred thing of all, their love for each other. So Stephen worked day and night in the completion of her novel.  However, in the meantime Mary was left alone for long periods of time without much important tasks to do or without any friends on whom she could visit. She becomes more  and more secluded in her own bubble and one day Stephen notices that she looked ill.

 

In meeting Brockett Stephen mentions about this and it is then that Brockett opens about his opinions. He says that he has realized that Stephen and Mary are lovers. He says that Mary is awfully depressed being with her own self without any eventful things in her extremely young life. He suggests Stephen to stop feeling repugnance towards her own people and to let her enjoy herself by going to some parties of Valerie Seymour. It is then that Stephen understands that when she is busy at work the young Mary is missing a social life of her own.

 

Chapter 44

 

Valerie Seymour's party. With the suggestion from Brockett, Stephen accompanies Mary to Valerie's Party. Here she is introduced to several open minded people who are way ahead of their time and Stephen decides to be who they really are without any drama.

At this party Stephen and Mary are introduces to several other like minded people

Dupont: Female.

Pat: strict and prim personality. Female. Married to a quite normal of a person and is now in the prospect of becoming a mother

 

Jamie: musical composer. Female. . Her companion is Barbara who is faithful and loving clinging to Jamie. Lovers since the days of childhood. Jamie lacks the skills of womanhood and her father would get to know of her relationship with Barbara. With his eventual death Jamie would sell the household and with the help of a music master comes to Paris with Barbara.

 

Wanda: Polish painter. Drinks a lot. Believer in some sort of god. Female. Her love knows no rules

 

Hortense: Once Valerie's lover now turned to best friend. Female. She has left husband, home and children for her love for Valerie and faced harsh criticism and social oppression

 

Margaret Roland: Poetess. Female. A generous lover who takes as if every love affair is the last. She has a voice similar to a boy's voice on the verge of breaking.

 

Brockett: Soft white hands. Male. Playwright.

 

Adolphe Blanc: Designer. Male. He was from a young age questioning who he was> and why he was different. After years spending to figure himself out and belittling himself he now considered himself a niche character and had found his soul.

 

All these different kinds of people were able to be who they were in the presence of Valerie because she was this one recognized person who the storms around wasn't able to break. It is to these people that Stephen turned when Mary was hoping for companionship. They had turned to their own kind. The people on whom god had laid his mark on.

 

Chapter 45

 

After the party at Valerie Seymour, Mary and Stephen got to know a lot of people in Paris. As a result Mary was not bored anymore. Also, Stephen finished writing her book and now they had a little bit of time to spend by themselves. Mary took a special liking to Jamie and Barbara. They would go on dinners with them and visit them as well. However Jamie and Barbara were in the depths of poverty and Barbara was always coughing and ill.

 

Jamie was at times in desolation because she feels as if her work is not coming up as she thought it would and the poverty and the fact that she is not able to give Barbara the perfect life tears her to pieces. Specially, when Barbara would cough her desolation would increase. But at times when the mood shifts to a better place Jamie and Barbara invited a few others to dinner. All these portrays the lifestyles that Stephen and Mary are exposed to during this period. One that is supportive unlike the society at Morton.

 

Chapter 46

 

With the massive success of Stephen's book they embark on a vacation to Italy where to their surprise are quite welcome to the locals and the visitors as well. It is there that Stephen and Mary meet Lady Massey and Agnes. Lady Massey becomes quite the motherly figure and she very much reminded Stephen of her own mother of the same class. Even though they got on really well there would be times that Stephen and Mary think to themselves that would they really like us if they knew what our relationship was? Also, the conversations with Lady Massey takes both of them back to memories of Morton, Stephen's exile and the repugnance Lady Anna holds for Mary. Lady Massey likes them so much that they even invite Stephen and Mary to their house for a party.

 

However, at the last moment Lady Massey breaks off their friendship with Stephen and Mary. She says that she had heard rumors about Stephen and Mary and considering her position in the county and her daughter she could not continue the relationship.

 

It is at this moment that the social and conventional norms achieve their first victory against the couple. Mary is devastated because she had loved being accepted. Stephen do not understand how to soothe the fragile creature.

 

Chapter 47

 

Their Christmas was daunting after the cancellation of Lady Massey. To make up for it Stephen and Mary decided to invite Jamie, Barbara and Wanda for dinner on Christmas. Wanda was in a holy streak where she refrained from drinking spirits. Stephen wanted to know about Wanda's faith and religion. Wanda was happy to share her knowledge and together with it her fears.

 

This chapter shows in the eyes of Wanda what it means to be different from the considered norm and still have a faith and belief in God. Wanda considers the thoughts in her minds as sins and she is deeply frightened by the rituals of "unclean" that she herself is even scared to drink the communion water.

 

Chapter 48

 

In this chapter we see clearly how the effect of social conditioning and adherence to social norms takes its toll on Mary. They travel to night clubs where they are able to dance together. Basically it seems these are gay bars. And it is here where Stephen and Mary dance first out in the public.

Everything that Stephen was scared of at the beginning come rushing back. The feeling that it's their love that is depriving Mary of the normal societal existence. Her will for success in writing suddenly feels minute and niche. It will not be enough to soothe Mary who was still in the prime of her youth.

 

We are introduced to other characters. Jeanne Maurel and Dickie West

Jeanne Maurel: is the latest conquest of Valerie Seymour. Female.

 

Dickie West: Woman Aviator. She is explained as belonging to a younger reckless generation which is one that is willing to fight for the place they are missing in the society.

 

Monsieur Pujol: He is the owner of the bar/ bartender. He collected inverts. Gays. But he was not an invert but one who was supportive of the cause.

 

From this place they go to a place called "Le Narcisse" they drink furthermore and Stephen and Mary even dance with each other. Even though Stephen goes to these places we are given the impression that she doesn't actually like these places. But Mary seems to enjoy. It is then Stephen recognizes the youthfulness of Mary and how the social needs of Mary differs from hers. She also realizes the toll of love on Mary.

 

It is after that they go to the place called "Alec's." Stephen sees this place as a miserable, gloomy place where all the low class who do drugs and in-numerous addictions to all other stuff hung out. Men and women who have given up hope on salvation. Who have no hopes in social acceptance or social dignity all joined here.

 

Stephen feels a strong sense of sadness and humiliation. She feels the odds with her against the world are too strong and their will truly be no real achievement. She so badly wants to be free from the feelings she go through.

 

It is Adolphe Blanc that then says "You are wrong, very wrong – this is only the beginning. Many die, many kill their bodies and souls, but they cannot kill the justice of God, even they cannot kill the eternal spirit. From their very degradation that spirit will rise up to demand of the world compassion and justice."

 

There is one strong scene at the end of the chapter where Stephen exclaims that the day was awful but Mary in contrast with her fine young spirits say that :

"Beggars can't be choosers in this world Stephen."

 

Chapter 49

 

The chapter portrays the wedding of Jean and Adele. Adele was the daughter of the maid at Rue Jacobs. Stephen feels desolated because she is in need of a glorified wedding, a love that can be celebrated with their friends, the blessing of the parents. But the love she had for Mary cannot be celebrated.

 

Chapter 50

 

Now we can see the situation what Stephen herself predicted at first taking its toll for Mary. She does not second guess her choice in falling in love with Stephen but blames it on Lady Massey's and Lady Anna's who shunned them out of their societal circles and lead them to a culture of partying in gay bars.  Stephen would look at her and search for answers to soothe Mary. But in vain.

 

It was in the winter then Barbara falls severely ill. Jamie and Barbara had quarreled over something the previous night and this was making Jamie disappointed with herself. Even though they try their best Jamie is not able to save Barbara.

 

There is one particular scene where the doctor asks whether Jamie is a relation of Barbara. The doctor's response was:

"That’s a pity, in a serious case like this I’d like to be in touch with some relation, someone who has a right to decide things. You know what I mean – it’s double pneumonia."

 

Stephen is shocked at how impotent Jamie is in this impossible situation. The reader feels the pang of disappointment at how little is entrusted to Jamie and in turn to Stephen as well.

 

With the final blow to the whole story we learn that Jamie shot herself.

 

Chapter 51

 

The death of Jamie and Barbara cast an impending gloom to everyone that knew them. It was the ultimate sacrifice of love Jamie had for Barbara. It is then Stephen turns to Valerie Seymour for guidance. With Valerie she would cry out why god intended them to suffer as much and why their lives and love was considered vile. She doesn't understand why the very women they went to war with do not understand that all of them are human and allowed to love whoever they wanted.

 

She argues about a lot of things that she is scared to discuss with Mary and her young mind. She knows that the rough has just started to get rough.

 

Chapter 52 (36 years)

 

The next episode of the novel unravels almost at the end of it in the form of Martin Hallam. After the day that Martin proposes his love to Stephen, we do not hear of his doings. After all this time he wants to meet up with Stephen. He by chance is in Paris as well and Stephen rings up Martin. The two catch up on their whereabouts before, during and after the war. He introduces Stephen and Mary to his Aunt Sarah.

 

Aunt Sarah is portrayed to be a conventional dame who do not have any subtlety towards the inverts, nor does she identify them as part of nature. Even though she praises Stephen in her writings she thinks that Stephen is merely imitating the men and that she is not being herself. On the other hand she is quite taken into Mary and learning of how Stephen has found her during the war and how Mary attributes her success to Stephen she thinks that Mary is lulled into a false sense of gratitude.

 

Mary hence thoroughly enjoys the visit to Aunt Sarah's and is willing to visit her timely. However, Stephen recognizes the aunt's attitude and decides then and there that in future visits Mary would have to come alone.

 

Chapter 53

 

Since the acquaintance with Martin, Stephen and Mary are spared with the night dates they went on to gay bars and other disconcerting places. Martin was able to let them join in with the "normal crowds", the cafes, Diners among the people who were strictly conservative in their thinking and where it would be atrocious for Stephen and Mary to dance. In these instances Mary would dance with Martin and Stephen could feel the desolation in her when she Mary laughing and enjoying without her.

 

Stephen feels as if Martin understands that she is an invert and one day says everything starting from her exile from Morton to Mary. Martin is understanding and even though he cannot exactly understand why she feels that way he respects their friendship.

 

At times Stephen feels as if there is this new formed companionship between Mary and Martin. And it would send a pang of jealousy to her heart. However, there are times when Mary argues extensively with Martin as well and supporting Stephen.

 

It is now Stephen who is in doubt of the love. In the early days Mary would yearn for reassurance of Stephen's love but now Stephen needs it more. She feels as if Mary is slowly slipping away from her.

 

Chapter 54

 

It is now unveiled that Stephen gets to know about Martin's feelings for Mary. This situation almost makes Martin ill. Either he had to betray Stephen of his friendship or Mary of his love. He decides to be honest about his feelings for Mary. He makes clear of his intentions to Stephen. Stephen is left bewildered and sick and giddy. She couldn't think of anything. A war has begun between Stephen and Martin over Mary.

 

Chapter 55

 

Mary senses the thrift between the two people in her life and is torn apart by her innermost feelings. She still deeply loves and adores Stephen even though she enjoys the company of Martin. She however secretly lounged for everything Martin could offer and loathed herself for feeling it.

 

We can see how the mind and heart is torn into two. The desolation in choosing. Meanwhile Martin senses that Mary loved him even though she would guard her feelings when they were together.

 

The whirlwind of thoughts inside Stephen's head. At times they would show all the things that Mary was missing with her. The security, stability, children. All that Stephen can offer is love. So little by little subconsciously Stephen pushed Mary away.

 

She visited Valerie more and more knowing that Mary had come to distrust them together. But however much Stephen pushed Mary away she clung back with the love she harbored for Stephen. It was at a breaking point of their arguments over the relationship between Stephen and Valerie that Mary says:

"But for you, I could have loved Martin Hallam."

 

At the deepest feelings of love for Mary, Stephen embarks upon a plan. A plan that would potentially save Mary of all the desolation in life. She would set Mary free.

 

Chapter 56

 

The final act. Stephen is not even sure it is herself that is carrying on with this plan. The plan was to pretend that Stephen and Valerie are having an affair and to drive Mary into the awaiting hands of Martin.

This is the greatest act of selflessness on the part of Stephen where in the deepest love she only wants what's best for Mary.

The entire section is a buildup to the ending in the sense little by little Stephen understands that she is unable to fulfill all the desires of the young Mary. She has so much more in life and Stephen realizes that all she could ever give is love. She can't give Mary the protection she needed. Neither can she make her not feel like an outcast within the society.

 

The final scene unfolds when Stephen comes home from Valerie's in the morning. She had already asked Martin to come and wait in the garden. She opens the door to Mary's room. She says that she was with Valerie. It was better to be frank. They had no lies with each other…

 

Devastated Mary runs out of the house into the awaiting hands of martin.

 

In the lonely hours god had forsaken Stephen.