The Return

"The Return" by Walter de la Mare is a novel that delves into the mysterious and unsettling transformation of Arthur Lawford, a man who experiences an inexplicable change in his appearance after a peculiar incident in a churchyard. The story begins with Lawford wandering through an old churchyard, reflecting on his life and health. He falls into a stupor and awakens to find his face altered beyond recognition. This metamorphosis leads to a series of events that challenge his identity and relationships, particularly with his wife, Sheila, who struggles to believe his story. Lawford's predicament is compounded by the disbelief of those around him, including the vicar, Mr. Bethany, who is called upon to provide guidance. As Lawford grapples with his new reality, he is forced to confront the nature of his existence and the essence of his being. The novel explores themes of identity, reality, and the supernatural, leaving readers to ponder the boundaries between the physical and the metaphysical. De la Mare's narrative is rich with psychological depth, capturing the protagonist's internal turmoil and the reactions of those around him as they navigate this extraordinary situation.