# XXXIII explained — Of Human Bondage

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

## What happens

Philip becomes preoccupied with Miss Wilkinson's hinted past and decides to seduce her. After a series of awkward attempts, he finally kisses her in the garden. Meanwhile, plans are made for Philip to become a chartered accountant in London, and he and Miss Wilkinson part with a sense of romantic tension.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Obsession

Philip's infatuation with Miss Wilkinson drives him to pursue a romantic conquest, blending curiosity and desire.

### Class and Social Mobility

Philip's decision to become a chartered accountant reflects the shifting professional landscape and his need to secure a respectable place in society.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Obsessed with Miss Wilkinson's stories, he resolves to kiss her and succeeds; also agrees to become a chartered accountant.

### Miss Wilkinson

Flirts with Philip, teaches him singing, and eventually allows him to kiss her; she is leaving Blackstable soon.

### Mrs. Carey

Scolds Miss Wilkinson for flirting with Philip and discusses Philip's future with the Vicar.

### William Carey

Corresponds with the family lawyer about Philip's career; decides on chartered accountancy.

### Albert Nixon

Family lawyer who advises against Philip becoming a solicitor and suggests chartered accountancy.

### Herbert Carter

Accountant who agrees to take Philip as an articled pupil.

## Key lines

> Philip could not get Miss Wilkinson's story out of his head. It was clear enough what she meant even though she cut it short, and he was a little shocked.

Philip is haunted by Miss Wilkinson's hinted sexual past and feels both shocked and intrigued.

_Highlights Philip's naivety and growing curiosity about romance._

> He put his arm round her waist and kissed her lips. She only laughed a little and made no attempt to withdraw.

Philip finally kisses Miss Wilkinson, and she accepts it playfully.

_Marks the culmination of Philip's romantic pursuit._

> The profession was greatly overcrowded, and without capital or connections a man had small chance of becoming more than a managing clerk; he suggested, however, that Philip should become a chartered accountant.

The lawyer advises against law due to limited prospects and recommends chartered accountancy as a better career path.

_Reflects the practical considerations shaping Philip's future._

## Links

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