The Perfume of Eros · Chapter
Sweet-and-Twenty explained
Annandale, still haunted by Sylvia Waldron after their broken engagement, flees the oppressive New York summer to Narragansett.
What happens
Annandale, still haunted by Sylvia Waldron after their broken engagement, flees the oppressive New York summer to Narragansett. Despite his attempts to move on, he remains restless and sober. At a dance at the Casino, he encounters Fanny Price, who has come from Newport. Their conversation reveals that Sylvia has moved on, and Fanny encourages Annandale to stay longer, suggesting he take her about. Annandale, initially planning to leave, is persuaded to reconsider.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Deception
Annandale's lingering love for Sylvia and the self-deception in thinking he can dictate to Fate.
Appearance vs. Reality
Annandale's outward composure contrasts with his inner turmoil; Fanny's lightheartedness masks deeper observations.
Fate and Free Will
Annandale's belief that he can write 'Finis' on his past is challenged by the persistence of memory.
Characters to notice
- Arthur Annandale
Haunted by Sylvia, he flees to Narragansett and meets Fanny Price at the Casino.
- Fanny
Meets Annandale at the Casino, encourages him to stay, and discusses Sylvia's engagement.
- Sylvia Waldron
Though absent, she haunts Annandale's thoughts; her engagement is discussed.
- Melanchthon Orr
Mentioned as having visited Annandale, after which Annandale stopped drinking.
Key passages
“He had supped on humiliations. He had no appetite for more.”
He had endured enough humiliation and wanted no more.
Annandale's resolve to move on from Sylvia.
“He thought that he could dictate to Fate. It is a mistake that many make.”
He believed he could control his destiny, but that is a common error.
The narrator's commentary on Annandale's illusion of control.
“In spite of the Finis, Sylvia Waldron declined to be dismissed.”
Despite his decision to end things, Sylvia refused to leave his thoughts.
Annandale's inability to forget Sylvia.