Wolf Solent · Chapter
The Face on the Waterloo Steps explained
Wolf Solent travels by train from Waterloo to Ramsgard, reflecting on his past, his dismissal from teaching, and his new position as literary assistant to Mr.
What happens
Wolf Solent travels by train from Waterloo to Ramsgard, reflecting on his past, his dismissal from teaching, and his new position as literary assistant to Mr. Urquhart. He contemplates his private 'mythology'—a secret mental practice of sinking into his soul—and wonders if the new reality of Dorset will disrupt his inner world. He also fantasizes about finding a girl to love.
Themes in this chapter
Mythology vs. Reality
Wolf's private 'mythology'—his secret mental practice—contrasts with the external reality he fears may disrupt it.
Love and Desire
Wolf fantasizes about finding a girl to make love to, desiring a 'tall and slim and white' woman.
Family and Legacy
Wolf reflects on his parents, his father's scandalous legacy, and his mother's ambitions.
Characters to notice
- Wolf Solent
Protagonist traveling to Ramsgard, reflecting on his past and his private 'mythology'.
- Mrs. Solent
Wolf's mother, mentioned in his memories of her reaction to his dismissal and his childhood.
- John Urquhart
The Squire of King's Barton who has offered Wolf a position; his letter is read.
- Darnley Otter
Mentioned as the man who will meet Wolf at the Lovelace Hotel and drive him to his mother's house.
- William Solent
Wolf's deceased father, buried in Ramsgard cemetery, whose memory Wolf contemplates.
- Lord Carfax
Relative of Mr. Urquhart and cousin of Wolf's mother, mentioned as a connection for Wolf's new post.
Key passages
“He re-invoked the extraordinary incident which had led to his 'prompt acceptance' of Mr. Urquhart's 'poor offer.'”
Wolf recalled the strange event that made him accept Mr. Urquhart's job offer.
Refers to Wolf's dismissal from teaching after his 'malice-dance'.
“This 'sinking into his soul'—this sensation which he called 'mythology'—consisted of a certain summoning-up, to the surface of his mind, of a subconscious magnetic power...”
Wolf's private practice of 'mythology' involved calling up a subconscious power within himself.
Describes Wolf's central mental habit.