# LXVI explained — Of Human Bondage

> Chapter companion for Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham.

## What happens

Philip finds happiness with Norah Nesbit, a practical and cheerful woman who writes penny novelettes. He passes his medical examinations and begins a romantic relationship with her, contrasting her warmth and intelligence with his past obsession with Mildred. Norah helps Philip overcome his sensitivity about his clubfoot and restores his self-esteem.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Obsession

Philip contrasts his healthy, affectionate relationship with Norah against his destructive obsession with Mildred, highlighting the difference between genuine love and possessive passion.

### Suffering and Disillusionment

Philip reflects on his past suffering from his obsession with Mildred, and Norah's sympathy helps him heal and regain self-esteem.

### Art and Authenticity

Norah writes formulaic penny novelettes for money, acknowledging her lack of talent, which contrasts with Philip's earlier artistic ambitions in Paris.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Passes his First Conjoint examination, begins a relationship with Norah Nesbit, and reflects on his past love for Mildred with horror.

### Norah Nesbit

A cheerful, practical woman who writes penny novelettes and supports herself and her child. She becomes Philip's lover and helps him heal from his past trauma.

### Mildred Rogers

Mentioned as the object of Philip's past hideous passion, now viewed with loathing and horror.

### Frederick Lawson

Arranges a luncheon-party where Philip meets Norah Nesbit.

## Key lines

> You know, I don’t believe in churches and parsons and all that, but I believe in God, and I don’t believe He minds much about what you do as long as you keep your end up and help a lame dog over a stile when you can.

Norah expresses a simple, practical faith: she doesn't care for organized religion but believes in God and in doing good deeds for others.

_Norah's philosophy contrasts with Philip's earlier religious doubts and reflects her pragmatic optimism._

> It’s very silly of you to be so sensitive about your clubfoot. You know, people don’t think about it nearly as much as you do. They notice it the first time they see you, and then they forget about it.

Norah tells Philip that his deformity is less noticeable to others than he imagines, encouraging him to stop being so self-conscious.

_This moment shows Norah's direct, caring approach to Philip's deepest insecurity, helping him heal._

> I think you’re well out of it. Poor thing, you must have had a rotten time.

Norah sympathizes with Philip after he tells her about his painful relationship with Mildred, affirming that he is better off without her.

_Norah's empathy contrasts with Mildred's cruelty, reinforcing Philip's emotional recovery._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxvi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/of_human_bondage_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters