Mrs. Pett Is Shocked explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Ambition

  Mrs. Pett's reception showcases her ambition to be seen as a patron of Bohemian genius, while the contrast between high society and artists highlights class dynamics.

• Love and Romantic Conflict

  Ann's indecision about Lord Wisbeach's proposal and her fleeting thoughts of another man she met on the ship introduce romantic tension.

• Comedy of Manners and Satire

  The chaotic mingling of guests, Mr. Chester's disdain for the party, and the satirical description of Mrs. Pett's 'human dragnet' style provide comedic social commentary.

Characters to notice

• Mrs. Pett

  Hosts a large at-home reception, actively mingling guests and showcasing her Bohemian circle.

• Ann Chester

  Struggles with indecision over Lord Wisbeach's marriage proposal; drives her father to his boat and reflects on her feelings.

• Hammond Chester

  Ann's father, visiting briefly before departing for South America; expresses contempt for the party and gives Ann minimal advice.

• Lord Wisbeach

  Engages in conversation with Mrs. Pett and Willie Partridge about Partridgite; has proposed to Ann and awaits her answer.

• Willie Partridge

  Discusses his explosive Partridgite with Lord Wisbeach and Mrs. Pett, maintaining an air of self-importance.

• Mr. Peter Pett

  Mentioned as avoiding the party; prefers to stay in his room until the guests leave.

Key passages

• “The large drawing-room overlooking the Hudson was filled almost to capacity with that strange mixture of humanity which Mrs. Pett chiefly affected. She prided herself on the Bohemian element in her parties, and had become during the past two years a human dragnet, scooping Genius from its hiding-place and bringing it into the open.”

  Mrs. Pett's drawing-room was packed with a diverse crowd, reflecting her pride in including Bohemian artists; she had made it her mission to seek out and showcase geniuses.

  Highlights Mrs. Pett's social ambition and the eclectic nature of her gatherings.

• “I don't have to give you advice. You've not only got three times the sense that I have, but you're not the sort of girl who would take advice. You've always known just what you wanted ever since you were a kid.”

  Hammond Chester tells Ann she is too sensible and independent to need his advice, acknowledging her self-reliance since childhood.

  Reveals Ann's independent character and her father's detached but trusting attitude.

• “She was a little thoughtful as she took her place at the wheel of her automobile. It was not often that her independent nature craved outside support, but she was half conscious of wishing at the present juncture that she possessed a somewhat less casual father.”

  Ann felt unusually uncertain and wished her father were more involved, as she drove away contemplating her decision about Lord Wisbeach.

  Shows Ann's rare moment of vulnerability and her internal conflict over the marriage proposal.