The Dark Other · Chapter
XIX: Man or Monster? explained
Patricia Lane anxiously awaits a response from Nicholas Devine after sending him a letter.
What happens
Patricia Lane anxiously awaits a response from Nicholas Devine after sending him a letter. She visits Dr. Horker's library, reads Kraft-Ebing's Psychopathia Sexualis, and reflects on her trust in Dr. Horker versus her mother. She receives a note from Nick arranging a meeting at their place in the park. Later, Nick calls, initially telling her not to come, but she insists and he reluctantly agrees. Pat resolves to meet him despite fears that 'the other' might appear.
Themes in this chapter
Psychological Trauma
Pat's anxiety, her fear of 'the other,' and the emotional strain of Nick's condition are central to her experience.
Duality of Self
Pat's fear that she might meet 'the other' instead of Nick highlights the dual nature of Nicholas Devine.
Characters to notice
- Patricia Lane
Anxiously awaits Nick's reply, visits Dr. Horker's library, receives Nick's note and phone call, insists on meeting him despite her fears.
- Nicholas Devine
Sends a note to Pat arranging a meeting, then calls to try to dissuade her, but ultimately agrees to meet.
- Dr. Carl Horker
Mentioned as Pat's confidant; she visits his residence and reflects on his kindness and willingness to help.
- Mrs. Lane
Pat's mother, who notices Pat's eagerness for the mail and is described as a precious, trusting parent.
Key passages
“She blundered into Kraft-Ebing, and read a few pages in growing indignation. 'I'm ashamed to be human!' she muttered disgustedly to herself, slamming shut the Psychopathia Sexualis.”
Pat accidentally finds a book by Kraft-Ebing and becomes angry at its content, feeling ashamed of humanity.
Pat's reaction to the clinical depiction of human sexuality reflects her moral outrage and discomfort.
“She could meet Nick as early as possible; perhaps at eight-thirty, and bring him directly to the Doctor's residence. No use wasting a moment, she mused; the sooner some light could be thrown on the affliction, the sooner they could lay the devil—exorcise it.”
Pat plans to meet Nick at 8:30 and take him straight to Dr. Horker's to confront and overcome his affliction.
Pat's determination to solve Nick's condition shows her hope and reliance on Dr. Horker.
“Suppose she went to that meeting and found—the other? Was she willing to face another evening of indignities and terrors like those still fresh in her memory?”
Pat worries that 'the other' might appear at the meeting instead of Nick, recalling past frightening experiences.
Pat's fear of the other personality underscores the duality theme and her psychological trauma.