# XXVII explained — Point Counter Point

> Chapter companion for Point Counter Point by Aldous Huxley.

## What happens

This chapter explores the unconventional marriage of John Bidlake and his third wife, Janet Bidlake, focusing on their indefinite arrangement of living apart without formal separation. It delves into Janet's retreat into the world of art and imagination, her unusual methods of raising their children, and John's return to Gattenden as a sick and dying man, which brings a new significance to the household.

## Themes in this chapter

### Art and Artifice

Janet Bidlake's retreat into art and imagination as a refuge from reality, and her insistence on exposing her children to high art and philosophy.

### Family and Dysfunction

The unconventional and distant family dynamics between John, Janet, and their children, marked by silence and avoidance.

### Modern Alienation and Despair

John Bidlake's fear of commitment and his 'sleeping around' lifestyle reflect a modern sense of alienation and the search for meaning.

## Character check-ins

### John Bidlake

Returns to Gattenden as a sick and dying man, having lived a life of 'sleeping around' and avoiding definite commitments.

### Janet Bidlake

John's third wife, who retreats into art and imagination, maintaining a silent and indefinite relationship with her husband.

### Elinor Quarles

Daughter of John and Janet, raised on classical literature and philosophy, developing a cynical innocence and irreverence toward her mother's ideals.

### Walter Bidlake

Son of John and Janet, born during John's brief domestic convalescence.

## Key lines

> She had been from childhood more at home in the fictitious world of her invention than in the real.

Since childhood, Janet felt more comfortable in her imaginary world than in reality.

_Describes Janet's lifelong tendency to escape into fantasy._

> Dying, he was quickening their life.

His impending death made the household feel more alive.

_Reflects the paradoxical impact of John's illness on the servants and household._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/point_counter_point_se/chapters/xxvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/point_counter_point_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/point_counter_point_se/chapters