# A Chair explained — Women in Love

> Chapter companion for Women in Love by D. H. Lawrence.

## What happens

Ursula and Birkin debate the value of possessions and the past, ultimately deciding to give away a newly purchased chair to a young working-class couple. Their conversation shifts to their relationship, marriage, and Birkin's desire for a broader human connection beyond just the two of them.

## Themes in this chapter

### Individual vs. Society

Ursula and Birkin reject societal norms of home and possessions, seeking a life uncontained by material or social expectations.

### Human Connection and Isolation

Birkin's yearning for a deeper fellowship beyond his bond with Ursula highlights the tension between intimate connection and broader human relationships.

### Art, Sensibility, and the Artist

The discussion of beauty, the old chair, and leaving things 'sketchy' reflects artistic sensibilities and the rejection of conventional aesthetics.

## Character check-ins

### Ursula Brangwen

Rebels against the past and old beauty, insists on living without fixed possessions, and confronts Birkin about his need for others.

### Rupert Birkin

Argues against materialism and fixed homes, expresses desire for a 'further fellowship' beyond his relationship with Ursula, and engages with the young working-class man.

### Gerald Crich

Mentioned by Ursula and Birkin in the context of their desire for connection and the limits of their influence on him.

### Gudrun Brangwen

Mentioned alongside Gerald as part of the broader social circle Birkin wishes to include.

## Key lines

> The truth is, we don't want things at all. The thought of a house and furniture of my own is hateful to me.

Birkin declares that he and Ursula fundamentally reject owning possessions, finding the idea of a home with furniture repulsive.

_Captures the core anti-materialist stance of the chapter._

> I want to be disinherited.

Ursula expresses a desire to be free from any inheritance or material ties.

_Highlights her rejection of the past and material legacy._

> Why should you hanker after other people? Why should you need them?

Ursula questions Birkin's persistent need for a wider circle of intimate relationships beyond their own.

_Central to the conflict about human connection in the chapter._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/women_in_love_se/chapters/xxvi-a-chair
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/women_in_love_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/women_in_love_se/chapters