The Well at the World’s End · Chapter
XXII: Now They Have Drunk and Are Glad explained
After drinking from the Well at the World's End, Ralph and Ursula awaken to find their old battle scars miraculously healed.
What happens
After drinking from the Well at the World's End, Ralph and Ursula awaken to find their old battle scars miraculously healed. They bathe in the ocean, marvel at the Well's craftsmanship, and enjoy a peaceful evening in a paradisiacal wilderness where wild animals show no fear. Ralph dreams of Upmeads calling him to deeds, but they decide to rest until morning.
Themes in this chapter
Quest and Adventure
The chapter marks the culmination of the quest to the Well at the World's End, with the protagonists experiencing renewal and a call to further deeds.
Love and Desire
Ralph and Ursula's intimate bathing and playful conversation emphasize their deep bond and mutual adoration.
Nature and the Supernatural
The healing of scars, the tame wild animals, and the idyllic landscape create a supernatural, Eden-like atmosphere.
Characters to notice
- Ralph of Upmeads
Ralph discovers his old sword scar has vanished after drinking from the Well, and he dreams of Upmeads calling him home.
- Ursula
Ursula also finds her gore wound healed, and she joyfully plays in the sea with Ralph, noting the miraculous renewal.
- Nicholas Longshanks
Mentioned in Ralph's recollection of a battle from his youth when he first received his shoulder scar.
Key passages
“Look, love! how the sea comes over the sand like the creeping of a sly wood-snake!”
Ralph compares the advancing tide to a stealthy snake.
Illustrates Ralph's heightened perception and poetic mood after drinking from the Well.
“There is no mark of the sword’s pilgrimage on thy shoulder.”
Ursula observes that Ralph's old battle scar has completely disappeared.
Confirms the miraculous healing power of the Well.
“In sooth here is no mark nor blemish, but the best handiwork of God, as when he first made a woman from the side of the Ancient Father of the field of Damask.”
Ralph says Ursula's side is flawless, like Eve newly created.
Highlights the theme of renewal and the Edenic quality of their surroundings.