# LIX: Return explained — David Copperfield

> Chapter companion for David Copperfield by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

David Copperfield returns to London after a long absence and visits his friend Traddles in Gray's Inn. He reflects on the changes in the city and his own feelings, then encounters Mr. Chillip, who recalls David's birth.

## Themes in this chapter

### Memory and Nostalgia

David reflects on the changes in London and his own past, feeling both familiarity and loss.

### Friendship and Loyalty

David's warm reunion with Traddles highlights the enduring bond between them.

## Character check-ins

### David Copperfield

Returns to London after a long absence, visits Traddles, and reflects on his past.

### Tommy Traddles

Now has chambers in Gray's Inn and is working at the Bar; David visits him and they have a joyful reunion.

### Mr. Chillip

David encounters him in the coffee room; Mr. Chillip recalls officiating at David's birth and shares news of his own life.

## Key lines

> I landed in London on a wintry autumn evening. It was dark and raining, and I saw more fog and mud in a minute than I had seen in a year.

David arrives in London on a cold, rainy autumn night, struck by the fog and mud that contrast with his time abroad.

_Sets the mood of David's return to England._

> I have often remarked—I suppose everybody has—that one’s going away from a familiar place, would seem to be the signal for change in it.

David observes that leaving a familiar place often triggers changes in it.

_Reflects David's sense of disorientation upon returning._

> We cried with pleasure, both of us.

David and Traddles both weep from joy at their reunion.

_Emphasizes the deep friendship between them._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters/lix-return
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_copperfield_se/chapters