The Moon and Sixpence · Chapter
XXXIX explained
After Blanche's funeral, Stroeve returns to his studio, haunted by memories of her.
What happens
After Blanche's funeral, Stroeve returns to his studio, haunted by memories of her. He discovers a nude painting of Blanche by Strickland and, in a fit of rage, prepares to destroy it but is overcome by its artistic power. He later recounts the experience to the narrator, describing the painting as a transcendent work of art that reveals Strickland's new soul and unsuspected powers.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak of Dirk Stroeve’s complete s…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Artistic Genius and Sacrifice
Strickland's painting of Blanche is portrayed as a transcendent work that transcends personal tragedy, highlighting the sacrifice of human relationships for art.
- The Pursuit of Truth and Beauty
Stroeve's awe before the painting reflects the pursuit of beauty as a spiritual force, even when it causes pain.
Characters to notice
- Dirk Stroeve
Grieving Blanche's death, he returns to the studio and is torn between rage and awe upon seeing Strickland's painting of her.
- The Narrator
Listens to Stroeve's account of the painting and reflects on the transformative power of Strickland's art.
- Charles Strickland
Referenced through his painting of Blanche, which Stroeve describes as a work of genius that reveals a new soul.
- Blanche Stroeve
Deceased; her memory and the painting of her nude body dominate Stroeve's emotional turmoil.
Key passages
“It was as though I were suddenly transported into a world in which the values were changed.”
The narrator feels as if he has entered a realm where everything is measured differently.
Reflects the transformative impact of Strickland's art on the narrator.
“I had nearly committed a dreadful crime. I moved a little to see it better, and my foot knocked against the scraper. I shuddered.”
Stroeve realizes he almost destroyed the painting and is horrified by his near act.
Highlights the conflict between personal grief and artistic reverence.
