His Family · Chapter
Chapter XLIII explained
Roger Gale, in declining health, sells his business and reflects on the transient nature of New York and his own life.
What happens
Roger Gale, in declining health, sells his business and reflects on the transient nature of New York and his own life. He spends quiet days at home, observes the bustling city, and has poignant final interactions with his daughters Laura and Edith, finding peace in memories of his wife Judith and in the presence of Deborah and her baby.
Themes in this chapter
Mortality and Legacy
Roger confronts his own mortality as his disease progresses, selling his business and reflecting on his life's work and the memories he will leave behind.
The Impact of Modernity and War
The chapter emphasizes the relentless change and transience of New York, with Roger observing the city's constant rebuilding and the impersonal nature of modern corporate life.
Family and Generational Change
Roger's interactions with his daughters Laura and Edith highlight the generational divide and his concern for their futures, while his bond with Deborah and her baby represents continuity.
Characters to notice
- Roger Gale
Roger is in the final stage of his life, selling his business and experiencing a mix of mental fog and clarity. He finds solace in watching the city and spending time with Deborah's baby, and has a tender farewell with Laura.
- Deborah Gale
Deborah is upstairs with her baby, and Roger visits her and the child. They share a lighthearted moment during the baby's bath.
- Laura Gale
Laura visits Roger, bringing his collection of rings and sitting with him. Roger reflects on her future with a mix of concern and admiration.
- Edith Gale
Edith visits Roger, but he sees pity in her face and feels she does not heed his warning about aging. He has a disturbing vision of a woman in a graveyard.
- John
John has left the house, and Roger notices his empty room and the parting gift album he left for Deborah's boy.
Key passages
“And it came to his mind that New York was like that—no settled calm abiding place cherishing its memories, but only a town of transition, a great turbulent city of change, restlessly shaking off its past, tearing down and building anew, building higher, higher, higher, rearing to the very stars, and shouting, “Can you see me now?””
Roger realizes that New York is not a stable city that preserves its history, but a chaotic, ever-changing metropolis that constantly destroys and rebuilds itself, reaching upward as if to boast.
This reflects Roger's meditation on the transience of the city and his own life.
“He knew he would never see her again. How graceful of her to go like that.”
Roger understands that Laura's visit is a final farewell, and he appreciates the elegance with which she leaves.
This moment underscores Roger's acceptance of death and his admiration for Laura's composure.