Crome Yellow · Chapter
XXII explained
Denis retreats to his bedroom to write, but his melancholy is interrupted by the sight of Anne and Gombauld heading to the studio.
What happens
Denis retreats to his bedroom to write, but his melancholy is interrupted by the sight of Anne and Gombauld heading to the studio. He encounters Mr. Scogan, who delivers a lengthy discourse on sanity, madness, and the need for a Rational State where men of intelligence harness the insanities of the world. Denis, feeling increasingly uncomfortable, suggests visiting Gombauld to interrupt his time with Anne.
Themes in this chapter
Intellectual vs. Physical Life
Mr. Scogan contrasts the man of reason (Erasmus) with the madman (Luther), arguing that passion and instinct drive action while reason remains impotent.
Self-Consciousness and Identity
Denis's self-consciousness is evident as he compares himself unfavorably to Gombauld and feels hurt by Mr. Scogan's dismissal of his potential role in the Rational State.
Social Class and Farming
Mr. Scogan remarks that leisure and culture are paid for by the toiling multitude in the harvest fields, highlighting class divisions.
Characters to notice
- Denis
Retires to his bedroom to write, suffers from postprandial melancholy, and is disturbed by seeing Anne with Gombauld. He later listens to Mr. Scogan's discourse and suggests visiting Gombauld.
- Mr. Scogan
Lies in wait for Denis in the hall and delivers a monologue on sanity, madness, and the Rational State, arguing that men of reason must harness the forces of insanity.
- Anne
Seen from Denis's window walking with Gombauld toward the studio to sit for him.
- Gombauld
Accompanies Anne to the studio; Denis suggests visiting him to interrupt their time together.
- Henry Wimbush
Playing bowls with Mary on the terrace.
- Mary
Playing bowls with Henry Wimbush on the terrace.
Key passages
“Sanity—that’s what’s wrong with me and that’s what will be wrong with you, my dear Denis, when you’re old enough to be sane or insane.”
Mr. Scogan tells Denis that his own sanity is a flaw, and that Denis will face the same problem when he matures.
Mr. Scogan introduces his theme of sanity versus madness.
“Everything that ever gets done in this world is done by madmen.”
Mr. Scogan asserts that all significant achievements are the work of irrational, passionate individuals.
Central to Mr. Scogan's argument about the power of madness.
“If you want to get men to act reasonably, you must set about persuading them in a maniacal manner.”
To achieve rational behavior in others, one must appeal to their passions in an irrational way.
Mr. Scogan's paradoxical prescription for social change.
“The men of intelligence must combine, must conspire, and seize power from the imbeciles and maniacs who now direct us. They must found the Rational State.”
Intellectuals must unite and take control from the foolish and insane leaders, establishing a society governed by reason.
Mr. Scogan's vision for the Rational State.
“I can see no place for you; only the lethal chamber.”
Mr. Scogan tells Denis that he would have no useful role in the Rational State and would be eliminated.
Mr. Scogan's harsh assessment of Denis's character.
