In Search of Lost Time · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The endnotes provide translator's footnotes and editorial clarifications regarding inconsistencies, errors, and references within the text, including notes on Mme.
What happens
The endnotes provide translator's footnotes and editorial clarifications regarding inconsistencies, errors, and references within the text, including notes on Mme. Verdurin's language, Mme. de Guermantes's repeated story, geographical confusion in Venice, and the reappearance of Gilberte as Saint-Loup's widow.
Themes in this chapter
Memory and Time
The endnotes highlight inconsistencies and repetitions in the narrative, reflecting the fallibility of memory and the passage of time.
Characters to notice
- Madame Verdurin
Noted for using the word 'tapette' unaware of its popular meaning.
- Duchesse de Guermantes
Mentioned for forgetting she already told a story about the Prince de Léon.
- Gilberte Swann
Reappears as Saint-Loup's widow, though the Duc and Duchesse de Guermantes are still alive.
- Robert de Saint-Loup
Referenced as Gilberte's deceased husband.
- Eulalie
Mentioned in a cross-reference where an error was originally attributed to her.
Key passages
“Mme. Verdurin uses here the word tapette , being probably unaware of its popular meaning.”
Mme. Verdurin uses the word 'tapette' without realizing its slang connotation.
Clarifies a linguistic misunderstanding by the character.
“Translator’s footnote: Mme. de Guermantes forgets that she has already told this story at the expense of the Prince de Léon.”
The translator notes that Mme. de Guermantes repeats a story she has already told about the Prince de Léon.
Highlights a narrative repetition and character forgetfulness.
“Translator’s footnote: This is quite inexplicable. Gilberte reappears as Saint-Loup’s widow while the Duc de Guermantes and his wife are still alive.”
The translator finds it inexplicable that Gilberte appears as Saint-Loup's widow even though the Duc and Duchesse de Guermantes are still alive.
Points out a chronological inconsistency in the narrative.