# IX explained — Years of Grace

> Chapter companion for Years of Grace by Margaret Ayer Barnes.

## What happens

Jane reflects on the disillusion of life and the choices she has made, while reuniting with André Duroy in his Paris studio after thirty-four years. She contemplates her children's happiness and the sacrifices of her own past, grappling with themes of regret, grace, and the paths not taken.

## Themes in this chapter

### Aging and Regret

Jane at fifty-one reflects on the disillusion of life, her sacrifices, and the paths not taken.

### Love and Marriage

Jane's reunion with André and her memories of past loves contrast with her current marriage and children's marriages.

### Motherhood and Family Dynamics

Jane's thoughts are preoccupied with her children's futures and the consequences of their choices.

## Character check-ins

### Jane Ward

Reflects on her life at fifty-one, her sacrifices, and her reunion with André.

### André Duroy

Reunites with Jane in his Paris studio; now a bearded sculptor with a cynical outlook.

### Cicily

Departs for her honeymoon with Albert Lancaster; her choices prompt Jane's reflections.

### Stephen Carver

Encourages Jane to visit André's studio; remains with the children.

### Flora Furness

Hosts Cicily's wedding; urges Jane to go to André's studio.

## Key lines

> It all comes to the same thing in the end, Jane, whatever we experience.

All experiences lead to the same outcome.

_Jane rejects this philosophy, arguing that experience shapes who we become._

> L’amour fait passer le temps, le temps fait passer l’amour!

Love makes time pass, time makes love pass.

_André quotes this French saying, reflecting on the transience of love._

> Qui vit sans folie n’est pas si sage qu’il croít.

He who lives without folly is not as wise as he thinks.

_André uses La Rochefoucauld's maxim to defend his earthy angels._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/years_of_grace_se/chapters/ix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/years_of_grace_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/years_of_grace_se/chapters