The Moon and Sixpence · Chapter
Chapter XXXVIII explained
Dirk Stroeve, dressed in deep mourning, visits the narrator to say goodbye before returning to Holland.
What happens
Dirk Stroeve, dressed in deep mourning, visits the narrator to say goodbye before returning to Holland. He reflects on his childhood, his parents' sacrifices for his art, and his current state as an outcast. He shares his regret over leaving the simple, secure life of a carpenter and expresses a longing for the safety and love of his family home.
Themes in this chapter
The Artist as Outcast
Stroeve feels like an outcast after years of ridicule and Blanche's betrayal, seeking refuge in his childhood home.
Convention vs. Individuality
Stroeve contrasts the safe, conventional life of a carpenter with the uncertain path of an artist, questioning the wisdom of his choice.
Characters to notice
- Dirk Stroeve
Dressed in deep mourning, Stroeve visits the narrator to announce his departure for Holland, reflecting on his childhood and his mother's love.
- The Narrator
The narrator listens to Stroeve's story and reflects on Stroeve's broken spirit and renunciation.
Key passages
“The world is hard and cruel. We are here none knows why, and we go none knows whither. We must be very humble. We must see the beauty of quietness. We must go through life so inconspicuously that Fate does not notice us.”
Life is harsh and mysterious; we should remain humble and quiet to avoid drawing Fate's attention.
Stroeve expresses his philosophy of humility and inconspicuousness as a response to his suffering.
“Perhaps that is the wisdom of life, to tread in your father's steps, and look neither to the right nor to the left.”
Maybe the wisest way to live is to follow your father's path without deviation.
Stroeve reflects on the safety of tradition and the life he might have had as a carpenter.