# VII explained — Those Barren Leaves

> Chapter companion for Those Barren Leaves by Aldous Huxley.

## What happens

The chapter explores Calamy's existential discontent and his feeling of being externally free yet internally compelled to do what he dislikes, contrasting with Lord Hovenden's simpler desires. Mrs. Aldwinkle struggles to say goodnight, fearing the loss of potential revelations, and attempts to control her guests' bedtime. After she retires with Irene, Mr. Cardan, Calamy, and Hovenden remain to drink wine, discussing boredom and the climacteric ages.

## Themes in this chapter

### Desire and Self-Deception

Calamy admits he consistently does what he doesn't like, despite being free, highlighting a disconnect between desire and action.

### Modernity and Meaninglessness

Calamy's boredom and sense of insanity in pursuing futile pleasures reflect a modern existential crisis.

### Authenticity vs. Performance

Mrs. Aldwinkle performs maternal solicitude and tragedy-queen drama, while Calamy seeks genuine self-understanding.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Cardan

Engages in philosophical banter with Calamy about boredom and the climacteric; suggests drinking Chianti.

### Mr. Calamy

Expresses frustration with his lack of inner freedom and tendency to do what he dislikes; prefers wine to Mrs. Aldwinkle's company.

### Lord Hovenden

Finds Calamy's introspection incomprehensible; knows he likes dancing and desires Irene; drinks little wine.

### Mrs. Aldwinkle

Struggles to say goodnight, fearing the loss of potential happiness or revelations; tries to control her guests' bedtime and discusses Calamy's character.

### Irene

Silently follows her aunt, Mrs. Aldwinkle, as an attendant shadow.

### Mary Thriplow

Accompanies Mrs. Aldwinkle upstairs; finds Calamy 'very intelligent'.

### Mr. Falx

Accompanies Mrs. Aldwinkle upstairs; argues with her about tyrants and the past.

## Key lines

> Now I’m free; I have every opportunity for doing exactly what I like⁠—and I consistently do what I don’t like.

Calamy feels that despite having complete freedom, he repeatedly acts against his own preferences.

_Illustrates the theme of desire and self-deception._

> Good night⁠—it was like parting with a shy lover who had not yet ventured to declare himself.

Mrs. Aldwinkle dreads saying goodnight because it feels like ending a day that might still reveal something wonderful.

_Highlights Mrs. Aldwinkle's fear of missing out on life's potential._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/those_barren_leaves_se/chapters/vii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/those_barren_leaves_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/those_barren_leaves_se/chapters