William—An Englishman · Chapter
XVI explained
After returning to London, William Tully lives in isolation and grief, immersing himself in war literature and history to distract from Griselda's death.
What happens
After returning to London, William Tully lives in isolation and grief, immersing himself in war literature and history to distract from Griselda's death. He attempts to enlist but is rejected multiple times, until finally he is accepted into the Army.
Themes in this chapter
Grief and Isolation
William lives in loneliness after Griselda's death, cut off from former associates and haunted by memories.
Personal Transformation
William's reading and rejection of his former dogmatic views lead to a new understanding of complexity and a desire to become a soldier.
War and Illusion
William's romanticized view of war through history books contrasts with the harsh reality of his enlistment process.
Characters to notice
- William Tully
Grieves for Griselda, moves to Camden Town, studies war history, and finally enlists after multiple rejections.
- Faraday
Offers William comfort after his first rejection, predicting he will eventually be accepted.
- Edith Haynes
Corresponds with William from Somersetshire, managing her brother's farm.
- Griselda Tully
Deceased; William thinks of her watching over him after his enlistment.
Key passages
“The place was dreadful to him, with its empty demand for Griselda, and he left it thankfully for a lodging in Camden Town.”
The flat haunted him with Griselda's absence, so he moved to Camden Town.
William's grief and need to escape memories.
“He stumbled amongst facts and opinions, making little of them and yet making much—since for the first time in his life there was no glib mentor to guide him and he was thrown on his own resources.”
He explored facts and ideas without guidance, learning on his own for the first time.
William's intellectual awakening and independence.
“It seemed to him Griselda must know and rejoice—and he had thoughts of her watching him, of her white soul blessing him to victory.”
He imagined Griselda watching over him and blessing his enlistment.
William's belief in Griselda's spiritual presence.