The Return of the Native · Chapter
Epigraph explained
The epigraph introduces the theme of sorrow as a constant, almost affectionate companion, setting a melancholic tone for the novel.
What happens
The epigraph introduces the theme of sorrow as a constant, almost affectionate companion, setting a melancholic tone for the novel.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this scene, the narrative climax occurs because Clym’s psychological recovery and newfound taciturnity are…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Suffering and Sacrifice
Sorrow is personified as a constant, loving companion, suggesting that suffering is an inescapable part of life.
Key passages
“To sorrow I bade good morrow, And thought to leave her far away behind; But cheerly, cheerly, She loves me dearly; She is so constant to me, and so kind. I would deceive her, And so leave her, But ah! she is so constant and so kind.”
I greeted sorrow in the morning, hoping to leave it behind, but it clings to me lovingly and persistently. I wish to escape it, yet it remains ever faithful.
The epigraph personifies sorrow as a devoted lover, emphasizing the inescapable nature of grief.
