Of Human Bondage · Chapter
LXIV explained
Philip awakens in the early hours tormented by thoughts of Mildred's marriage, trying to rationalize his pain and wounded pride.
What happens
Philip awakens in the early hours tormented by thoughts of Mildred's marriage, trying to rationalize his pain and wounded pride. He buys her an expensive, vulgar wedding present. On the day of the wedding, he meets his old friend Hayward, and they spend the day visiting the National Gallery, lunching, and taking a steamboat to Greenwich. The conversation and beauty of the day lift Philip's spirits, and he reflects on art, freedom, and his future in medicine, feeling momentarily liberated from his suffering.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Disillusionment
Philip's sleepless night and rationalization of Mildred's rejection highlight his ongoing pain and disillusionment with love.
Art and Authenticity
Philip's conversation with Hayward and his reflections on beauty, art, and the liberation of the soul from pain underscore the theme of art as a source of meaning.
Freedom and Determinism
Philip discusses medicine as a profession that offers freedom, and his plans to travel the world reflect a desire for autonomy.
Characters to notice
- Philip Carey
Awakens unable to sleep, tormented by Mildred's marriage; buys her a showy wedding present; meets Hayward and spends the day in art and conversation, finding temporary relief from pain.
- Mildred Rogers
Philip obsesses over her marriage; he buys her a vulgar dressing-bag as a wedding present, and the wedding occurs during his outing with Hayward.
- Hayward
Reunites with Philip in London; they visit the National Gallery, lunch, and take a steamboat to Greenwich, discussing art, literature, and life.
- Clutton
Mentioned by Philip recalling a discourse on beauty and art from his Paris days.
Key passages
“He told himself that deep down in his heart was mortified pride; his passion had begun in wounded vanity, and it was this at bottom which caused now a great part of his wretchedness.”
Philip realizes that his suffering stems from wounded pride and vanity rather than genuine love.
Philip's self-analysis reveals his awareness of his own emotional motivations.
“He realised, what he had only read before, that art (for there was art in the manner in which he looked upon nature) might liberate the soul from pain.”
Philip experiences firsthand how art can free the mind from suffering.
A key moment of insight where Philip connects aesthetic experience with emotional relief.
“The only way a poor man can do that is by going in for the medical.”
Philip believes medicine is the only profession that allows a poor person to travel and see the world.
Philip's pragmatic view of medicine as a means to freedom and adventure.