# LXXIX explained — Of Human Bondage

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

## What happens

Philip settles into new lodgings in Kennington, decorates them with mementos from his past, and reconnects with Norah Nesbit after his painful breakup with Mildred. He visits Norah hoping for reconciliation but finds her with another man, Kingsford, and must navigate the awkwardness of their reunion.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Obsession

Philip's lingering feelings for Mildred and his attempt to rekindle with Norah highlight his struggle between obsessive love and genuine affection.

### Isolation and Belonging

Philip's new lodgings and his efforts to create a home reflect his search for stability and belonging after his tumultuous relationship with Mildred.

### Art and Authenticity

Philip's reflections on his past art studies and the fate of Miguel Ajuria underscore the theme of artistic pursuit and the harsh realities of talent and failure.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Philip moves into new lodgings, decorates them, and visits Norah Nesbit seeking forgiveness and reconciliation after Mildred left him.

### Norah Nesbit

Norah receives Philip warmly despite his past treatment, but is now involved with Kingsford, a journalist.

### Frederick Lawson

Lawson visits Philip's new rooms and mentions running into Norah, prompting Philip to seek her out.

### Hayward

Hayward visits Philip's new lodgings with Lawson, bringing a pâté de foie gras.

### Cronshaw

Cronshaw's Persian rug is mentioned as part of Philip's furniture in his new rooms.

### Miguel Ajuria

Philip hangs a charcoal drawing of Miguel, reflecting on his past art studies and wondering what became of him.

## Key lines

> If I'd only had the sense to stick to her!

Philip regrets not staying with Norah, realizing her worth after Mildred's betrayal.

_Philip reflects on his past relationship with Norah, wishing he had valued her loyalty._

> She had loved him with a love that was kind and lasting, there was more than sensuality in it, it was almost maternal.

Norah's love for Philip was gentle and enduring, almost like a mother's care.

_Philip recalls the depth and selflessness of Norah's affection._

> He was cured of the hateful disease from which he had suffered, he knew her worth, and now she might trust him.

Philip believes he has overcome his destructive obsession with Mildred and is ready to appreciate Norah's true value.

_Philip resolves to win Norah back, feeling freed from his past infatuation._

## Links

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