While reading the conclusion to Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway I found myself more or less disturbed. I had thought that leaving off at the death of the deranged Septumus was difficult. However, the end of this short work was by far perplexing. I’ve found that analyzing the book can be quite exhausting. The conclusion takes place abruptly and Woolf leaves her readers hanging.
What will become of Clarissa, Peter, Sally, Elizabeth, and Rezia? I’ve considered that perhaps Woolf left out any final thoughts on any of the characters in order to offer readers the chance to anticipate their futures themselves. However, I find this tactic quite bothersome as I ponder again and again the fates of various characters in the book.
Another aspect of the book which I found troubling was the piece in which Septumus’s death was mentioned at the party. After Clarissa heard the details in conversation she became enraged and took a moment to herself. I do agree with her that the death of this man was far from party conversation. However, it unnerves me to observe such a high nosed display as if to think that one’s party can only include pleasant conversational topics.
Yes, the death of this man was horrific. However, the fine details are much worse to consider. Readers may find it hard to believe that six month of rest and total confinement was worth committing suicide. However, it may be safe to say that Septimus was so far gone that not even this ridiculous treatment would bring his mind to rest. Therefore, I believe that the man surely made a decision that would bring him less torment than any other. As now he is free, I still would have just run away had I been in his place.
Rezia and Septimus are certainly my favorite characters from the book. Their conflict amounts to much more than the conflicts of Clarissa and Peter. Yet, their significance to the story is much harder to understand. I am still working with thoughts in my head but find it difficult to come to rest on any particular ideas. Woolf certainly wrote an original piece and one worthy of praise. Though, it is a work that absorbs one thoughts and demands much effort. I myself, have been enthused while reading the works of Woolf. However, being I was upset with the vague ending, I am not quite yet sure if I should read some more of her works.

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