# Chapter XXVII explained — His Family

> Chapter companion for His Family by Ernest Poole.

## What happens

Roger observes the strained dynamics in his household as Deborah and Edith struggle to connect. He reflects on the generational and ideological divide between his daughters, while also watching his grandchildren George and Elizabeth navigate their own loyalties. Deborah prepares to leave for a meeting at Cooper Union, and Edith announces she has let Hannah go to save money, further highlighting the tensions between tradition and modernity.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Generational Change

The chapter explores the rift between Deborah and Edith, symbolizing the clash between old and new values within the family, and Roger's role as a mediator.

### Social Reform and Education

Deborah's work with neighborhood clubs and her presidency at a Cooper Union meeting underscore her commitment to social reform and education.

### The Impact of Modernity and War

The war abroad influences the household, from Elizabeth's reading about surgeons to Edith's financial decisions, reflecting modernity's pressures.

## Character check-ins

### Roger Gale

Roger feels the weight of family discord, torn between his daughters' conflicting worldviews, and struggles with his own fatigue and desire to escape.

### Deborah Gale

Deborah tries to reach out to Edith but is met with resistance; she is deeply involved in her reform work and prepares to preside at a Cooper Union meeting.

### Edith Gale

Edith is withdrawn and hurt, feeling outdated and defensive against Deborah's new ideas; she has let Hannah go to save money.

### George

George is absorbed in reading 'Bulls and Breeding,' showing his youthful curiosity, and is caught between his mother and aunt.

### Elizabeth

Elizabeth, at thirteen, is fascinated by Deborah's world and dreams of becoming a surgeon, but feels guilty for her interest.

### John

John moves silently through the house, keeping out of sight, suggesting underlying tension with Edith's presence.

## Key lines

> Why the devil can’t they live and let live?

Roger wonders why Deborah and Edith cannot tolerate each other's differences.

_Expresses Roger's frustration with the ongoing conflict between his daughters._

> These women! These evenings! This worry! This war! This world gone raving, driveling mad!

Roger feels overwhelmed by the domestic tensions, the war, and the chaotic state of the world.

_Highlights Roger's sense of exasperation and helplessness._

> In their lives too we shall be there, the dim strong figures of the past.

Roger reflects that he and the older generation will live on in the memories of future generations.

_Captures Roger's contemplation of legacy and the continuity of family._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/his_family_se/chapters/xxvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/his_family_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/his_family_se/chapters