# XXVI: Rain explained — On a Chinese Screen

> Chapter companion for On a Chinese Screen by W. Somerset Maugham.

## What happens

The narrator contrasts the discomfort of a rainy journey in China with the cozy comforts of London life, reflecting on the pleasures of home, family, and leisure activities like reading, writing, and attending the theater.

## Themes in this chapter

### Colonial Ennui and Isolation

The narrator's vivid daydream of London comforts highlights the isolation and discomfort of life in China.

### Beauty and Art as Escape or Illusion

The narrator escapes the dreary rain through thoughts of art, literature, and theater.

## Character check-ins

### Elizabeth

The narrator's daughter, who comes to say goodbye in her white squirrel fur and later appears in pajamas before bed.

## Key lines

> Yes, but the sun does not shine every day. Sometimes a cold rain beats down on you and a northeast wind chills you to the bone.

The weather is not always pleasant; harsh rain and wind can make travel miserable.

_Opening lines set the tone of discomfort and contrast with earlier idyllic scenes._

> Then you think of your pleasant room in London. The rain driving in squalls against the windows only makes its warmth more grateful.

You imagine a cozy London room, where the rain outside enhances the comfort inside.

_Highlights the narrator's longing for home and the comforts of Western life._

> I know then that Messrs. Knight, Frank, and Rutley are my favourite authors.

The narrator humorously praises real estate agents as his preferred writers.

_Satirical commentary on the escapism found in property advertisements._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/on_a_chinese_screen_se/chapters/xxvi-rain
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/on_a_chinese_screen_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/on_a_chinese_screen_se/chapters