The Moon and Sixpence · Chapter
VII explained
The narrator describes the end of the social season in London and a chance meeting with Mrs.
What happens
The narrator describes the end of the social season in London and a chance meeting with Mrs. Strickland and her children. They share ices in the park, and the narrator reflects on the seemingly idyllic family life of the Stricklands, feeling a mix of envy and unease about its placid, conventional pattern. He confesses a personal desire for a more dangerous and unpredictable existence.
Themes in this chapter
Convention vs. Individuality
The narrator contrasts the conventional, orderly happiness of the Strickland family with his own inner desire for a more dangerous and unpredictable life.
Gender Roles and Marriage
Mrs. Strickland is portrayed as the devoted wife and mother, while Charles Strickland is seen as a dull but adequate provider, reflecting traditional gender roles.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
Reflects on the Stricklands' family life and his own longing for a wilder, more exciting path.
- Mrs. Strickland
Seen with her children making final purchases before leaving London; proud and devoted to her family.
- Charles Strickland
Mentioned as a dull but adequate husband, content in his domestic life.
Key passages
“That must be the story of innumerable couples, and the pattern of life it offers has a homely grace. It reminds you of a placid rivulet, meandering smoothly through green pastures and shaded by pleasant trees, till at last it falls into the vasty sea; but the sea is so calm, so silent, so indifferent, that you are troubled suddenly by a vague uneasiness.”
The narrator sees the Stricklands' life as a common, peaceful story, like a gentle stream flowing to a calm sea, but this very tranquility stirs a sense of disquiet in him.
The narrator's reflection on the conventional life and his underlying unease.
“Perhaps it is only by a kink in my nature, strong in me even in those days, that I felt in such an existence, the share of the great majority, something amiss.”
The narrator suggests that his own peculiar temperament makes him feel that something is wrong with the kind of life most people lead.
The narrator acknowledges his own nonconformist perspective.