IV: Chitterlow explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Mobility

  Kipps' encounter with Chitterlow introduces him to a world outside his draper's life, hinting at possibilities for escape and self-improvement through theatrical connections.

• Love and Marriage

  Kipps' despondency over Helen Walshingham and Chitterlow's tales of romantic entanglements highlight the theme of love and its complications.

• Identity and Authenticity

  Chitterlow's frank, theatrical persona contrasts with Kipps' constrained identity as a draper, prompting Kipps to question his own authenticity and desires.

Characters to notice

• Arthur Kipps

  Kipps is in a state of despondency over the loss of his woodcarving class and his relationship with Helen Walshingham. He is knocked down by Chitterlow's bicycle and later drinks whiskey with him, becoming increasingly engaged in Chitterlow's theatrical stories.

• Harry Chitterlow

  Chitterlow crashes his bicycle into Kipps, then befriends him, taking him to his lodgings. He shares vivid anecdotes about his theatrical past, reads a scene from a farcical comedy, and sews Kipps' torn trousers. He encourages Kipps to consider a career in dramatic criticism.

• Helen Walshingham

  Kipps thinks of Helen Walshingham with longing and regret, as her absence from the woodcarving class contributes to his despondency. She is not physically present in the chapter.

• Mr. Shalford

  Shalford is mentioned as having been 'on to' Kipps for mistakes at work, including ticketing items upside down, adding to Kipps' distress.

• Old Methusaleh

  Old Methusaleh is the whiskey that Chitterlow and Kipps drink; Chitterlow refers to it as 'the inspiring antediluvian' and they consume it during their evening together.

Key passages

• “He forgot his lost Miss Walshingham and his outraged employer again. He became as it were a desperado by reflection.”

  Kipps temporarily forgot about Helen Walshingham and his angry boss, and felt like a reckless adventurer just by listening to Chitterlow.

  Shows Kipps' escapism through Chitterlow's stories.

• “They say you can’t love two women at once. But I tell you— It’s Rot! Rot!”

  Chitterlow dismisses the idea that a man cannot love two women simultaneously, calling it nonsense.

  Reflects Chitterlow's unconventional views on love and relationships.

• “He set out to reveal Life as it is lived in touring companies, a quite amazing jungle of interwoven 'affairs' it appeared to be, a mere amorous winepress for the crushing of hearts.”

  Chitterlow described the chaotic romantic entanglements in touring theatre companies as a relentless emotional grind.

  Highlights the contrast between Kipps' sheltered life and the bohemian world.

• “You aren’t hurt, Matey?”

  Chitterlow asked Kipps if he was injured after the collision.

  Chitterlow's first words to Kipps after the accident.

• “I was back pedalling for all I was worth anyhow. Not that I am worth much back pedalling.”

  Chitterlow claimed he was trying to brake as hard as he could, but joked that his back-pedalling skills were poor.

  Shows Chitterlow's self-deprecating humor.