# XXXIX explained — The Moon and Sixpence

> Chapter companion for The Moon and Sixpence by W. Somerset Maugham.

## What happens

After Blanche's funeral, Stroeve returns to his studio, haunted by memories of her. He discovers a nude painting of Blanche by Strickland and, in a fit of rage, prepares to destroy it but is overcome by its artistic power. He later recounts the experience to the narrator, describing the painting as a transcendent work of art that reveals Strickland's new soul and unsuspected powers.

## Themes in this chapter

### Artistic Genius and Sacrifice

Strickland's painting of Blanche is portrayed as a transcendent work that transcends personal tragedy, highlighting the sacrifice of human relationships for art.

### The Pursuit of Truth and Beauty

Stroeve's awe before the painting reflects the pursuit of beauty as a spiritual force, even when it causes pain.

## Character check-ins

### Dirk Stroeve

Grieving Blanche's death, he returns to the studio and is torn between rage and awe upon seeing Strickland's painting of her.

### The Narrator

Listens to Stroeve's account of the painting and reflects on the transformative power of Strickland's art.

### Charles Strickland

Referenced through his painting of Blanche, which Stroeve describes as a work of genius that reveals a new soul.

### Blanche Stroeve

Deceased; her memory and the painting of her nude body dominate Stroeve's emotional turmoil.

## Key lines

> It was as though I were suddenly transported into a world in which the values were changed.

The narrator feels as if he has entered a realm where everything is measured differently.

_Reflects the transformative impact of Strickland's art on the narrator._

> I had nearly committed a dreadful crime. I moved a little to see it better, and my foot knocked against the scraper. I shuddered.

Stroeve realizes he almost destroyed the painting and is horrified by his near act.

_Highlights the conflict between personal grief and artistic reverence._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_moon_and_sixpence_se/chapters/xxxix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_moon_and_sixpence_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_moon_and_sixpence_se/chapters