# Chapter XXXVIII explained — The Moon and Sixpence

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

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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