# LXXXIII explained — Of Human Bondage

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

## What happens

Philip discovers Cronshaw living in squalor and illness in a cheap Soho lodging, having been bedridden for three days with only milk. He persuades Cronshaw to move into his own spare room, where Cronshaw corrects the proofs of his long-awaited poetry volume, facilitated by the critic Leonard Upjohn. Despite his worsening health, Cronshaw refuses to stop drinking and maintains a detached, philosophical attitude toward his circumstances.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Disillusionment

Cronshaw's physical decay and squalid living conditions contrast with his earlier poetic aspirations, highlighting the disillusionment of a neglected artist.

### Art and Authenticity

Cronshaw's indifference to material discomfort and his focus on his poetry's publication reflect the tension between artistic integrity and worldly recognition.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Visits Cronshaw's squalid room, is horrified by his condition, and insists he move into his spare room.

### Cronshaw

Found ill and bedridden in a filthy shared room; agrees to move in with Philip; corrects proofs of his poetry volume.

### Leonard Upjohn

The critic who arranged publication of Cronshaw's poems and persuaded a publisher to accept them.

## Key lines

> What do the circumstances of life matter if your dreams make you lord paramount of time and space?

Cronshaw argues that external hardships are insignificant compared to the power of one's inner visions.

_Cronshaw's philosophical detachment from his physical suffering._

> I've been quite happy. Look, here are my proofs. Remember that I am indifferent to discomforts which would harass other folk.

Cronshaw claims contentment despite his illness, finding joy in the proofs of his poems.

_Cronshaw's prioritization of his art over his well-being._

## Links

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