Comment on the theme of Mother-Fixation in “Sons and Lovers.”
Sons and Lovers is a notable literary work by D. H. Lawrence. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Sons and Lovers.
Answer
Comment on the theme of Mother-Fixation in “Sons and Lovers.” [NU: 2017, 20, 22] ★★★
Or, Illustrate the term’ Oedipus Complex’ in the context of “Sons and Lovers.” [NU: 2015]
In psychology, fixation means being too strongly attached to someone or something. After that, they cannot move forward normally. / The term “Oedipus Complex” comes from Sigmund Freud. It means that when a son feels a very deep attachment to his mother, he sees the father as a rival. D. H. Lawrence’s (1885–1930) “Sons and Lovers” (1913) shows the power of a mother’s love. Gertrude Morel is unhappy in marriage. So she turns her heart to her sons. William and Paul grow under her shadow. Her love gives them care, but also a burden. They cannot love other women freely. This theme is called Mother-Fixation in the novel.
Failed Marriage Creates Fixation: Gertrude marries Walter Morel with hope. Soon, she feels cheated. He drinks, wastes money, and quarrels. Misery fills the house. So, Lawrence says,
“There was a feeling of misery over all the house.”
Walter drinks, comes home late, and argues. Their love dies. So, the narrator again says:
“Each forgot everything save the hatred of the other.”
From this moment, she withdraws her heart. She turns away from Walter. She gives her love to her children. In them, she finds comfort. This failed marriage creates the base for mother-fixation.
William in Mother-Fixation: William is the eldest son. He becomes Gertrude’s pride. He is handsome and clever. He earns money and brings gifts. Gertrude depends on him. But when he brings his sweetheart Lily Weston to their home, trouble begins. Gertrude dislikes the girl. William feels trapped. He loves his mother but also wants freedom. This struggle kills his peace. He grows ill and dies young. His fate shows how a son’s life breaks under mother-fixation.
Paul in Mother-Fixation: After William’s death, Paul becomes his mother’s world. He gives her flowers and paintings. She listens to him always.Unlock this study guide now