# Letter 511: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of profound despair and remorse following Clarissa's death. He reflects on his guilt, the loss of his senses, and the haunting impact of Clarissa's posthumous letter. He struggles with suicidal thoughts and considers leaving England, while also expressing rage against Mrs. Sinclair and Clarissa's family.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Lovelace experiences intense suffering and remorse after Clarissa's death, but he admits he cannot repent or reform, highlighting the theme of unattainable redemption.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace's earlier 'golden dream' of triumph is shattered by the reality of his guilt and loss, and he reflects on the false promises of his libertine lifestyle.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Lovelace is the author of the letter, consumed by guilt and despair over Clarissa's death, unable to eat, drink, or sleep, and contemplating suicide.

### John Belford

Belford is the recipient of the letter; Lovelace asks him to continue his communications and mentions a shocking letter from Belford about Mrs. Sinclair.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Clarissa is deceased; Lovelace obsessively reflects on her posthumous letter, her virtues, and her forgiveness, which deepens his remorse.

### Mrs. Sinclair

Lovelace blames Mrs. Sinclair and her 'hell-born nymphs' for Clarissa's fate, noting she has broken her leg and expressing a wish for her death.

### Richard Mowbray

Mowbray is mentioned as one of Lovelace's companions who is exasperated with Belford's letter.

### James Tourville

Tourville is mentioned alongside Mowbray as being exasperated with Belford.

## Key lines

> I have been lost to myself, and to all the joys of life.

I have lost my sense of self and all happiness in life.

_Lovelace expresses his complete despair following Clarissa's death._

> To say I once loved you, is what I ought to blush to own.

Admitting that I once loved you is something I should be ashamed of.

_Lovelace quotes Clarissa's posthumous letter, reflecting on her acknowledgment of her former love for him._

> I can neither eat, drink, nor sleep.

I am unable to eat, drink, or sleep.

_Lovelace describes his physical and mental deterioration._

## Links

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