The Well of Loneliness · Chapter
XXXV explained
Stephen and Mary's life in Paris becomes strained as Mary grows restless and unhappy, leading Stephen to seek solace in her work and in the company of Valérie Seymour, while Mary's desire for a conventional home and social life creates a ri
What happens
Stephen and Mary's life in Paris becomes strained as Mary grows restless and unhappy, leading Stephen to seek solace in her work and in the company of Valérie Seymour, while Mary's desire for a conventional home and social life creates a rift between them.
Themes in this chapter
Isolation and Otherness
Stephen and Mary's relationship is marked by a growing sense of isolation from each other and from society, as Mary's desire for normalcy clashes with Stephen's identity.
Love and Sacrifice
Stephen's love for Mary leads her to sacrifice her own happiness and endure loneliness, while Mary's unhappiness forces Stephen to confront the limits of their bond.
Characters to notice
- Stephen Gordon
Feels the growing distance from Mary and struggles with her own isolation, turning to her writing and to Valérie Seymour for companionship.
- Mary Llewellyn
Becomes increasingly unhappy and restless in Paris, longing for a home and a more conventional social life, which strains her relationship with Stephen.
- Valérie Seymour
Provides a refuge for Stephen, offering understanding and a sense of calm amidst the turmoil with Mary.
Key passages
“She wanted a home, she wanted friends, she wanted the ordinary things of life that other women had.”
Mary longed for a conventional home and social circle, the simple domestic life that society expected of women.
Highlights Mary's growing dissatisfaction with her unconventional life with Stephen.
“Stephen, watching her, felt a cold hand at her heart.”
Stephen sensed a deep, chilling dread as she observed Mary's unhappiness.
Illustrates Stephen's emotional pain and foreboding about the state of their relationship.