# Chapter XXI explained — The Return

> Chapter companion for The Return by Walter de la Mare.

## What happens

Lawford bids farewell to Herbert and Grisel, confessing his transformation into Nicholas Sabathier and his inability to return to his old life. Grisel insists he must face his fate, and they part at a milestone, leaving Lawford to run home in despair.

## Themes in this chapter

### Identity and Transformation

Lawford explicitly identifies as Sabathier and describes his complete change in beliefs and desires.

### Isolation and Alienation

Lawford feels like an outcast and a felon, mocked by the world and unable to return to his former life.

### The Search for Peace

Grisel advises Lawford that facing the worst is his only hope for peace, and they both seek resolution.

## Character check-ins

### Arthur Lawford

Confesses his transformation to Sabathier and his despair, struggles with the decision to leave Grisel.

### Grisel

Walks part of the way with Lawford, insists he must face the worst for peace, and bids him a sorrowful goodbye.

### Herbert

Engages in a difficult conversation with Lawford about his transformation and departure, expresses frustration with speech.

### Nicholas Sabathier

Referenced as the identity Lawford has become, the 'worst he ever was.'

## Key lines

> I am an outcast—a felon caught red-handed, come in the flesh to a hideous and righteous judgment.

Lawford sees himself as a condemned criminal, punished in his very body for his transformation.

_Lawford expresses his sense of guilt and alienation._

> to face the worst is your only hope of peace.

Grisel tells Lawford that confronting his difficulties directly is the only way to find tranquility.

_Grisel's advice encapsulates the theme of seeking peace through acceptance._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_return_se/chapters/xxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_return_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_return_se/chapters