The Moon and Sixpence · Chapter
XXIII explained
The narrator reflects on his winter in Paris, recalling the absurd yet charming household of Dirk Stroeve and his wife.
What happens
The narrator reflects on his winter in Paris, recalling the absurd yet charming household of Dirk Stroeve and his wife. He describes his peculiar relationship with Strickland, who is brutally honest and often offends Stroeve. Strickland asks to borrow money but is refused; later, he reveals he has a commission to paint a retired plumber. Strickland then mercilessly taunts Stroeve, reducing him to tears, yet the narrator finds the scene both horrible and laughable.
Themes in this chapter
Convention vs. Individuality
Strickland's brutal honesty and disregard for social niceties contrast with Stroeve's conventional, sentimental nature.
The Artist as Outcast
Strickland lives in poverty, refuses to conform, and alienates those around him, embodying the outcast artist.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
Reflects on the winter in Paris and his interactions with Strickland and Stroeve.
- Charles Strickland
Shows his brutal, indifferent nature; asks to borrow money, later taunts Stroeve mercilessly.
- Dirk Stroeve
Described as absurd but sincere; his household is charming; he is cruelly attacked by Strickland.
- Blanche Stroeve
Mentioned as part of the charming household, though not directly present in the scene.
Key passages
“though you hated Strickland, and the exhibition was horrible, it was impossible not to laugh.”
Despite despising Strickland and finding the scene appalling, the narrator couldn't help but laugh.
Highlights the absurdity of Stroeve's situation and Strickland's cruelty.
“He was the constant lover, and though she grew old, losing her rounded lines and her fair comeliness, to him she would certainly never alter.”
Stroeve's love for his wife is unwavering; he sees her as eternally beautiful regardless of aging.
Illustrates the idealistic and sentimental nature of Stroeve's love.