# XXXIX explained — Of Human Bondage

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

## What happens

Philip announces his intention to abandon accountancy and study art in Paris, leading to a bitter dispute with his uncle, the Vicar. Despite the Vicar's refusal to support him, Philip resolves to sell his father's jewellery to fund his plans. Aunt Louisa, moved by his passion, secretly gives him nearly a hundred pounds from her own savings, expressing her love and hope that he will remember her help when he becomes a great artist.

## Themes in this chapter

### Freedom and Determinism

Philip asserts his freedom to choose his own path against his uncle's insistence on sticking to a predetermined course, highlighting the conflict between individual will and societal expectations.

### Art and Authenticity

Philip's desire to study art in Paris represents a search for authentic self-expression, rejecting the inauthenticity of his accounting work and London life.

### Love and Obsession

Aunt Louisa's selfless love for Philip and her unrequited devotion to her indifferent husband illustrate the theme of love as both a source of strength and suffering.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Determined to leave accountancy and pursue art in Paris, despite his uncle's opposition.

### William Carey

The Vicar firmly opposes Philip's plan, insisting he stick to his chosen profession and condemning Paris as immoral.

### Mrs. Carey

Aunt Louisa secretly gives Philip her savings to support his artistic ambitions, expressing her deep love and hope for his future.

### Hayward

Provides Philip with information about Paris and a letter of introduction to an art school.

### Herbert Carter

Philip's employer, who reports to the solicitor that Philip has not done well in his work.

### Albert Nixon

The family solicitor, who writes a letter supporting Philip's change of profession.

## Key lines

> You chose to be an accountant of your own free will... I just took that because it was the only chance I saw of getting up to town. I hate London, I hate the work, and nothing will induce me to go back to it.

Philip explains that he only became an accountant to move to London, but he despises both the city and the job and refuses to return.

_Philip's rejection of his accounting career and his determination to change his life._

> So long as I have anything to say in the matter, I shall not allow you to live in Paris... It was a sink of iniquity.

The Vicar declares he will not permit Philip to live in Paris, which he considers a den of vice.

_The Vicar's moral condemnation of Paris and his attempt to control Philip's choices._

> I couldn't bear to let you sell your father's jewellery. It's the money I had in the bank. It comes to very nearly a hundred pounds.

Aunt Louisa gives Philip her savings to prevent him from selling his father's heirlooms, offering him nearly a hundred pounds.

_Aunt Louisa's secret gift, symbolizing her love and support for Philip's artistic dreams._

## Links

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