The Return · Chapter
V explained
Lawford is examined by Dr.
What happens
Lawford is examined by Dr. Simon, who attributes his changed appearance and mental state to a chill and nervous shock from influenza. Mr. Bethany and Mrs. Lawford conspire to manage the situation, hiding a sealed letter and controlling Lawford's access to money. Lawford pleads for his wife's genuine companionship, but she remains distant. The next morning, Mr. Bethany returns early, troubled by the implications of the transformation, and he and Mrs. Lawford discuss the precariousness of identity and the need for circumspection.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Transformation
Lawford's physical and psychological change is discussed by Dr. Simon and Mr. Bethany, highlighting the tenuous hold on personality.
Marriage and Domestic Tension
Sheila's cold management of Lawford's finances and her emotional distance underscore the strain in their marriage.
Faith vs. Skepticism
Mr. Bethany refrains from saying 'God knows best,' revealing a tension between religious platitude and genuine pity.
Characters to notice
- Arthur Lawford
Confined to bed, examined by Dr. Simon, and pleads with Sheila for genuine connection; his story is modified for the doctor.
- Sheila
Manages the household and finances, locks Lawford in his room, and conspires with Mr. Bethany; struggles with doubt and composure.
- Mr. Bethany
Devises the plan to hide the letter, returns early the next morning troubled by the problem of personality, and advises circumspection.
- Dr. Simon
Examines Lawford, attributes his symptoms to influenza and nervous shock, and reassures him without addressing the portrait.
Key passages
“I don't think we need worry much about that. It certainly was a bleak wind yesterday—and a cemetery, my dear sir! It was indiscreet—yes, very.”
Dr. Simon dismisses Lawford's concerns about his changed face, attributing it to the cold wind and his visit to the cemetery.
Dr. Simon's professional reassurance minimizes the supernatural implications.
“I have taken all the money I could find; it is in safety. You may, however, conceivably be in need of some yourself; here is five pounds.”
Sheila informs Lawford that she has secured the household money and gives him a small allowance.
Sheila asserts financial control, reflecting her distrust of Lawford's identity.
“I realised how tenuous, how appallingly tenuous a hold we every one of us have on our mere personality.”
Mr. Bethany reflects on the fragile nature of personal identity after witnessing Lawford's transformation.
Bethany's insight underscores the theme of identity and transformation.