Discuss the treatment of love and marriage in “Sons and Lovers.”

Answer

Discuss the treatment of love and marriage in “Sons and Lovers.” [NU: 2015, 18, 21] ★★★

D. H. Lawrence’s (1885–1930) “Sons and Lovers” (1913) shows love and marriage in deep conflict. The novel paints passion, quarrels, and disappointment. Walter and Gertrude’s failed marriage stands at the centre. Gertrude turns her love to her sons. Paul’s loves with Miriam and Clara also fail. Marriage does not bring joy. Love becomes a struggle. This makes the novel tragic.

Walter and Gertrude- A Failed Marriage: At first, Gertrude Morel feels passion for Walter. But soon she sees the truth. He drinks, quarrels, and wastes money. Morel prefers drink and games to family. He spends hours in the Nelson (a bar) or the Three Spots. He is skilled in pub (local bar) games. Lawrence says about him,

“He was a master of skittles and of dominoes.”

His joy in the pub becomes pain for the family. These nights of pleasure leave his wife alone and angry. The children suffer in poverty. He returns home drunk, and quarrels rise. Their bond breaks. The narrator says,

“Each forgot everything save the hatred of the other.”

This shows their lost love. Their home is full of quarrels. Gertrude turns her love away from her husband. This failed marriage creates the root of all pain.

Gertrude’s Love for Her Sons: Gertrude is cheated in marriage. She finds comfort in her sons. She pours her heart into William and Paul. Her love is deep but also possessive. The narrator says about Paul’s love for her mother in such a way,

“His [Paul] soul seemed always attentive to her [Gertrude].”

She becomes their guide, friend, and beloved. This bond is warm but also heavy. It blocks the sons from free love. Her love is more like a fixation than a balance.

William’s Struggle with Love: William is the eldest son. He is clever and handsome. He brings his sweetheart, Lily Weston, to their home. But Gertrude