# XXXVI explained — Of Human Bondage

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

## What happens

Philip moves to London to begin his articled clerkship at Messrs. Herbert Carter & Co. He settles into lodgings in Barnes, then reports to the office where he meets the managing clerk Mr. Goodworthy and the articled clerk Watson. He is given the task of sorting letters and feels overwhelmed by the new environment and his own shabbiness.

## Themes in this chapter

### Class and Social Mobility

Philip's discomfort with his shabby clothes and Watson's condescension highlight class distinctions and Philip's uncertain social position.

### Isolation and Belonging

Philip feels alone in his new lodgings and out of place in the office, struggling to find his footing among unfamiliar people.

## Character check-ins

### Philip Carey

Arrives in London, begins his articled clerkship, feels out of place and self-conscious about his appearance and clubfoot.

### Mr. Goodworthy

Managing clerk at Carter & Co., assigns Philip to sort letters and introduces him to Watson.

### Herbert Carter

Head of the firm, a military-looking man who speaks breezily about gentlemanliness and sports.

### Watson

A fellow articled clerk, a wealthy and condescending young man from a brewing family, who patronizes Philip.

## Key lines

> The curate had recommended rooms in Barnes, and these Philip engaged by letter at fourteen shillings a week.

Philip arranged to rent a room in Barnes for fourteen shillings a week, based on a recommendation from the curate.

_Establishes Philip's move to London and his modest financial circumstances._

> He felt that people were staring at him a great deal, and once he took off his hat to see whether by chance the label had been left on.

Philip was self-conscious, thinking others were looking at him, and even checked his hat for a price tag.

_Illustrates Philip's insecurity and anxiety about fitting in._

> Watson was a nice fellow, perfect gentleman, good sportsman—did Philip hunt? Pity, the sport for gentlemen.

Watson was described as a gentleman and sportsman, and Philip was asked if he hunted, a pastime considered appropriate for gentlemen.

_Highlights the emphasis on gentlemanly pursuits and class markers in the office._

## Links

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