# IV explained — The Forsyte Saga

> Chapter companion for The Forsyte Saga by John Galsworthy.

## What happens

Old Jolyon Forsyte, grappling with his age and a newfound desire to see Irene, arranges a dinner and opera outing in London. He suffers a fainting fit but is comforted by Irene's presence. Afterward, he returns home, cherishing the time left with her while haunted by a vision of Bosinney.

## Themes in this chapter

### Aging and Mortality

Old Jolyon confronts his age, physical frailty, and the finite time left, especially in relation to his desire to see Irene.

### Possessiveness and the Sense of Property

Old Jolyon's desire to control his time with Irene and his secret codicil reflect a subtle possessiveness.

## Character check-ins

### Old Jolyon Forsyte

Struggles with his age and a desire to see Irene; suffers a fainting fit but is revived by her care.

### Irene Forsyte

Attends to Old Jolyon during his illness; shows solicitude and affection.

### June Forsyte

Mentioned as stubborn and not one to forget; her return from Spain limits Old Jolyon's time with Irene.

### Young Jolyon Forsyte

Mentioned as Old Jolyon's son, whose return from Spain with June is anticipated.

### Holly Forsyte

Greets Old Jolyon at the station with the dog Balthasar.

### Balthasar

The dog restrained by Holly at the station; mentioned again later in the chapter.

## Key lines

> He would see her as often as he wished! Why not go up to town and make that codicil at his solicitor's instead of writing about it; she might like to go to the opera!

Old Jolyon decides to visit London to amend his will and take Irene to the opera, asserting his desire to see her frequently.

_Highlights his determination to spend time with Irene despite his age._

> I should have liked you for a daughter

Old Jolyon expresses a paternal affection for Irene, wishing she were his daughter.

_Reveals his deep emotional attachment to Irene._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_forsyte_saga_se/chapters/iv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_forsyte_saga_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_forsyte_saga_se/chapters