Little Dorrit · Chapter
Nobody's State of Mind explained
Arthur Clennam, having resolved to suppress his love for Pet, struggles internally with his feelings toward Henry Gowan, whom he dislikes but tries to judge fairly.
What happens
Arthur Clennam, having resolved to suppress his love for Pet, struggles internally with his feelings toward Henry Gowan, whom he dislikes but tries to judge fairly. His partner Daniel Doyce shares his concerns about Gowan's influence on the Meagles family. Clennam agrees to visit Gowan's mother at Hampton Court, maintaining a composed exterior despite inner turmoil. The chapter explores Clennam's self-restraint and the theme of unspoken suffering.
Themes in this chapter
Self-Sacrifice and Devotion
Clennam's decision to suppress his love for Pet and avoid selfish actions reflects a theme of self-sacrifice for the sake of others' happiness.
Social Class and Hypocrisy
Gowan's casual cynicism about art and society, and the genteel poverty of Hampton Court residents, highlight class-based hypocrisy.
Characters to notice
- Arthur Clennam
Struggles with his decision to suppress love for Pet and his dislike of Henry Gowan; maintains a composed and generous demeanor.
- Daniel Doyce
Expresses concern about Henry Gowan's influence on the Meagles family; shares a candid conversation with Clennam about Gowan.
- Henry Gowan
Visits Clennam and speaks lightly of Doyce and the world; arranges a visit to his mother at Hampton Court.
- Pet Meagles
Mentioned as the object of Gowan's addresses and Clennam's suppressed affection; described as young and trusting.
- Mr. Meagles
Referenced as being clouded by concern over Gowan's relationship with Pet.
Key passages
“If Arthur Clennam had not arrived at that wise decision firmly to restrain himself from loving Pet, he would have lived on in a state of much perplexity, involving difficult struggles with his own heart.”
Had Arthur not resolved to stop himself from loving Pet, he would have been constantly confused and conflicted.
Introduces Clennam's internal conflict and his decision to suppress his feelings.
“I see him bringing present anxiety, and, I fear, future sorrow, into my old friend’s house.”
I see him causing current worry and likely future grief for my old friend's family.
Doyce expresses his concern about Gowan's impact on the Meagles.
“In nobody’s state of mind, there was nothing Clennam would have desired less, or would have been more at a loss how to avoid.”
In his detached emotional state, Clennam wanted nothing less and found it hard to avoid.
Highlights Clennam's emotional numbness and reluctance to engage with Gowan.