# LXXII explained — Of Human Bondage

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

## What happens

Philip visits Mildred daily during her pregnancy, providing financial and emotional support. They discuss future plans, including a trip to Paris after the birth. Mildred gives birth to a daughter, and Philip feels a deepened sense of love and commitment.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Obsession

Philip's unconditional devotion to Mildred, his joy in spending money on her, and his ritualistic goodnight kisses illustrate his obsessive love.

### Suffering and Disillusionment

Mildred's pragmatic view of her body as a commodity and her hope for a stillbirth reflect disillusionment with her circumstances.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Devotedly cares for Mildred during her pregnancy, works while she rests, and plans a future with her.

### Mildred Rogers

Accepts Philip's support, remains emotionally detached, and gives birth to a daughter.

### Cronshaw

Mentioned as a friend Philip plans to introduce to Mildred in Paris.

### Frederick Lawson

Mentioned as a friend in Paris whom Philip plans to visit with Mildred.

## Key lines

> He used to leave her at ten o'clock every night, for she liked to go to bed early, and he was obliged to put in another couple of hours' work to make up for the lost evening.

Philip left Mildred's each night at ten, then worked an extra two hours to compensate for the time spent with her.

_Shows Philip's dedication and the sacrifice of his own time for Mildred._

> Mildred expected to be confined early in March, and as soon as she was well enough she was to go to the seaside for a fortnight: that would give Philip a chance to work without interruption for his examination; after that came the Easter holidays, and they had arranged to go to Paris together.

Mildred's due date was early March; after her recovery, she would go to the seaside, allowing Philip to study for his exam, and then they planned a Paris trip during Easter.

_Highlights their shared plans and Philip's anticipation of a future with Mildred._

## Links

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