Mythology vs. Reality

Wolf Solent's personal 'mythology'—a sensuous, mystical worldview that imbues nature and life with meaning—is constantly challenged by the harsh, often sordid realities of human behavior, economic pressures, and moral dilemmas, forcing him to confront the fragility of his inner vision.

Wolf's internal conflict between the romanticized stories of his family and the harsh truths he uncovers.

Wolf's private 'mythology'—his secret mental practice—contrasts with the external reality he fears may disrupt it.

Wolf's inner 'mythology' clashes with the harsh realities of his father's death, his mother's judgments, and the unknown future with Mr. Urquhart.

Urquhart's vision of history as a selective chronicle of 'pith and sap and salt' contrasts with Wolf's more idealistic sense of moral truth.