The Perennial Bachelor · Chapter
XXVII explained
Victor participates in a rehearsal for the 'Bachelor's Revery' pageant, while Maggie receives news of May's suicide.
What happens
Victor participates in a rehearsal for the 'Bachelor's Revery' pageant, while Maggie receives news of May's suicide. The chapter then shifts to the aftermath, with Miss Snaith and Miss Hopper's attempts at courtship, the departure of boarders, and May's unrequited feelings for a plumber, leading to her emotional outburst and accusations against her family.
Themes in this chapter
Isolation and Loneliness
Miss Snaith and Miss Hopper's attempts to find connection through Teddy bears and courtship highlight their isolation.
Unfulfilled Love and Marriage
May's unrequited feelings for the plumber and her accusations about Victor preventing marriages underscore this theme.
Family Sacrifice and Duty
Maggie's care for May and the family's burden after May's suicide reflect the theme of familial duty.
Characters to notice
- Victor Campion
Rehearses for the 'Bachelor's Revery' and returns home to learn of May's suicide.
- Maggie Campion
Informs Victor of May's death and reflects on May's life.
- May
Drowns herself in the bathtub; later remembered as 'Lady of Shalott'.
- Miss Snaith
One of the remaining boarders; harbors feelings for Victor and considers sending a valentine.
- Lily Campion
Mentioned as selfish and deceitful by Mrs. Mittendorf.
Key passages
“May—May's drowned herself—in the bathtub—”
May has committed suicide by drowning in the bathtub.
Victor learns of May's death upon returning home.
“She eloped with a plumber!”
She ran away with a plumber.
Imagined gossip about May's fate, contrasting with her actual suicide.
“He's been and gone. He's finished the job—isn't that nice?”
The plumber has already come and left, completing his work.
Maggie tells May the plumber has finished, leading to May's distress.