# Endnotes explained — In Search of Lost Time

> Chapter companion for In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/in_search_of_lost_time_se/chapters/endnotes
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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/in_search_of_lost_time_se/chapters