Sons and Lovers, Chapter 14 summary

What happens

1. Dr. Ansell directs Paul to the hospitalized Baxter Dawes, whose initial suspicion gradually gives way to a troubled friendship.
2. Clara visits Dawes out of guilt, while her relationship with Paul becomes increasingly distant and fearful.
3. Mrs. Morel declines, and she and Paul hide their fear beneath affection, ordinary conversation, and forced cheerfulness.
4. During a seaside trip, Paul tells Clara about his mother's suffering and says he wishes she would die.
5. Paul finds no comfort with Miriam, then shares the nursing with Annie as December brings snow and worsening pain.
6. With Annie's agreement, Paul crushes the morphine pills into milk and gives it to his mother, who notices its bitterness.

In this chapter

What to notice

Mrs. Morel, as reported by Paul rejects the parson's promise of reunion after death. Her attachment to living people explains her resistance despite extreme suffering.

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