Who Septimus Warren Smith is
Septimus Warren Smith goes to war full of poetry and a wish to defend England. He returns changed, unable to escape what he experiences in the trenches.
In Regent's Park, sparrows seem to sing to him in Greek, and trees appear full of meaning. His visions are frightening, but the novel also gives careful attention to his feelings and perceptions.
What Septimus Warren Smith wants
Septimus feels guilty because he cannot grieve for Evans in the way he thinks he should. His numbness seems to him a crime, adding guilt to the suffering he already carries.
When doctors propose separating him from his wife, he fears losing his private sense of what is real. Their confidence offers little comfort to a man whose distress they do not truly hear.
Septimus Warren Smith and the others in the story
Lucrezia Warren Smith, called Rezia, is his Italian wife, who leaves her family and country for him. Lonely in London, she points out ordinary sights in the hope of bringing him back to the present.
Septimus also stands beside Clarissa Dalloway as a contrasting figure, though the two never meet. Their separate days share London's streets and sounds, bringing private suffering alongside the city's public life.
Questions
Who is Evans to Septimus Warren Smith?
Evans is Septimus's officer and close friend from the war. Memories of him haunt Septimus and deepen his feelings of guilt.
Why does Septimus fear the doctors?
Septimus fears that their treatment will take away his independence and separate him from Rezia. Dr Holmes dismisses his distress, while Sir William Bradshaw recommends rest away from his wife.
Does Septimus meet Clarissa Dalloway?
No, Septimus and Clarissa never meet. The novel connects their lives through the same city and shared concerns about time and private feeling.