# Sailing Away explained — After London

> Chapter companion for After London by Richard Jefferies.

## What happens

Felix awakens resolved to set sail, leaves Old House without farewells, and launches his canoe at Heron Bay. He navigates the lake, encounters a merchant vessel, and discovers the western mouth of the straits dividing the mainland.

## Themes in this chapter

### Individual vs. Society

Felix leaves his home and community without farewell, choosing a solitary voyage over social ties.

### Nature and Wilderness

The chapter vividly describes the lake, wind, waves, islands, and the dangers of the natural environment.

## Character check-ins

### Felix Aquila

Resolves to begin his voyage, leaves Old House without farewells, launches canoe at Heron Bay, and navigates the lake.

### Sir Oliver

Accompanies Felix to Heron Bay, assists with launch, then returns via Ponze.

### Baron Thyma

Already finished breakfast and gone to his gardens when Felix leaves.

## Key lines

> Without one word of farewell, without a glance, Felix rode out into the forest.

Felix left without saying goodbye or looking back.

_Emphasizes his determined and proud departure._

> He had purposely refrained from looking back till now, lest they should think he regretted leaving, and in his heart desired to return.

He avoided looking back to hide any possible regret or desire to return.

_Shows his internal struggle and resolve._

> The weakness and irresolution, the hesitation, left him. He became full of his adventure, and thought of nothing else.

His doubts vanished and he focused entirely on the voyage ahead.

_Marks a turning point in his mindset._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/after_london_se/chapters/xiii-sailing-away
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/after_london_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/after_london_se/chapters