# XVIII explained — Cakes and Ale

> Chapter companion for Cakes and Ale by W. Somerset Maugham.

## What happens

The narrator reflects on his growing distance from Driffield as the latter becomes more involved in literary society. Driffield publishes 'The Cup of Life,' which initially receives modest reviews but then sparks a scandal due to a violent attack in a morning paper, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for suppression. Driffield remains philosophically calm, supported by friends like Mrs. Barton Trafford, who declares it a masterpiece. The narrator notes that the book, now read, seems tame by modern standards.

## Themes in this chapter

### Artistic Integrity vs. Commercialism

Driffield's calm acceptance of the scandal contrasts with the commercial pressures and public condemnation, highlighting his commitment to artistic truth.

### Hypocrisy and Reputation

The public's violent reaction to the book, while the narrator notes it is tame by modern standards, underscores the hypocrisy of the literary establishment.

## Character check-ins

### The Narrator

Observes Driffield's growing aloofness and reflects on the scandal surrounding 'The Cup of Life.'

### Edward Driffield

Publishes 'The Cup of Life,' faces a public scandal, and remains philosophically calm, asserting the truth of his work.

### Rosie Driffield

Rarely attends social gatherings, feeling shy and out of place; informs the narrator of Driffield's expectations for the book's earnings.

### Mrs. Barton Trafford

Supports Driffield during the scandal, declaring 'The Cup of Life' a masterpiece and maintaining faith in his future.

## Key lines

> He was, of course, there every Saturday afternoon, amiable and ironically amusing; he appeared glad to see me and chatted with me for a little while pleasantly of indifferent things; but naturally most of his attention was given to guests older and more important than I.

Driffield was present at the Saturday gatherings, friendly and witty, but he spent more time with the more distinguished guests than with the narrator.

_Shows the narrator's feeling of growing distance from Driffield._

> It is refreshing and astringent. It tastes of tart apples. It sets your teeth on edge, but it has a subtle, bittersweet savour that is very agreeable to the palate.

The book is invigorating and sharp, like tart apples, with a complex, bittersweet flavor that is pleasing.

_The narrator's personal appreciation of 'The Cup of Life.'_

> “They say it isn’t true,” he smiled. “They can go to hell. It is true.”

Driffield dismisses the critics, asserting that his portrayal is truthful regardless of their objections.

_Highlights Driffield's artistic integrity in the face of scandal._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cakes_and_ale_se/chapters/xviii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cakes_and_ale_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cakes_and_ale_se/chapters