Of Human Bondage

“He formed the most delightful habit in the world, the habit of reading: he did not know that thus he was providing himself with a refuge from all the distress of life; he did not know either that he was creating for himself an unreal world which would make the real world of every day a source of bitter disappointment.”

This quotation occurs early in the novel, when Philip is a young boy and discovers how much he enjoys reading as a way to assuage his Loneliness and Desire for Connection. The quotation describes a pivotal moment in the plot and in the development of Philip’s character: His love of reading will fuel his intellectual and artistic growth through the rest of the novel. The quotation also foreshadows Philip’s subsequent disappointments and dissatisfaction, connecting these events to his sensitive and artistic temperament.

“‘I suppose no one ever has faith enough,’ he said.”

Philip reflects on why his earnest prayers did not result in the miraculous healing of his clubfoot. At this point in his life, Philip has absorbed a literal belief in the power of faith and assumes that he has been unable to cure himself because of a lack of faith. The quotation reveals the importance of religion in Philip’s early life and sets the stage for him to continue to explore his spiritual and philosophical beliefs throughout his maturation.

“Enthusiasm was ill-bred. Enthusiasm was ungentlemanly.”

The quotation describes the reaction of the more senior teachers at Philip’s school when a new head of the school is being hired. The more sedate and conservative teachers recoil from someone who is more innovative and energetic. The quotation shows how assumptions around social class are embedded in the institution where Philip receives his education and thus passed down to him as well.