Chapter 12

Bernard has invited some important people to meet John. However, John refuses to leave his rooms and disappoints an anxious Bernard.

Everyone at the party is upset about John’s refusal, and they vent their frustrations on Bernard. Some take this opportunity to suggest that Bernard is still merely an odd, inept man despite his newfound fame. Miss Keate, who Bernard desires strongly, is scathing in her rejection of him.

As the Arch-Community-Songster prepares to leave, Bernard apologizes to this guest profusely.

Lenina, who had also been awaiting John, is disappointed and deeply saddened by his refusal. She assumes that John has declined to be in their party because he does not like her. Meanwhile, Lenina’s desire for John only increases.

Bernard had expected this party to be a crowning moment in his career, but it turned out to be his greatest humiliation. He is left with a warning to “mend his ways.” He is deeply saddened by the events and decides to take a few pills of soma. John, meanwhile, is seen reading Romeo and Juliet.

Lenina is invited to an evening gathering by the Arch-Community-Songster, and she reluctantly accepts the invitation. John finds a sad, ponderous Bernard more likeable than the “famous” Bernard.

Although Bernard understands that it is hypocritical to be upset at John for not coming to his party, he is unable to control the bitterness he feels toward John. Bernard is now torn by his affection for Bernard and his growing bitterness toward him. Having lost his social standing, Bernard decides to see Watson’s company once more.

When he meets Watson, Bernard realizes that Watson, too, has been in trouble with the authorities for writing poems about solitude. Bernard finds out that Watson had been reported to the authorities by one of his students. Although Watson is worried about his career, he is nonetheless happy to have written a good poem.

Meanwhile, John and Watson strike up a good rapport, which makes Bernard jealous. John and Watson recite poetry to each other, which further troubles Bernard. However, Watson offends John when the latter discusses Romeo and Juliet with him; Watson dismisses the play as a laughable work. Despite his fondness for writing, Watson dismisses literature, which deeply upsets John.

Analysis

This chapter highlights Bernard’s transition from a resilient, intelligent man to a jealous and vain person. He is upset with John for not coming to his party. John’s refusal in turn lands Bernard in trouble with his superiors and he loses his colleagues’ respect. It is evident to readers that Bernard’s social ascension was based entirely on John’s “novelty.” In other words, people did not change their opinion of Bernard; they were only momentarily forced to accord him respect for his role in bringing John to London.

Though Lenina is unaccustomed to love, it is apparent that she is falling in love with John, who resolutely spurns her sexual advances: Lenina is unable to understand the emotions and affection she feels for John; she is unable to tell him how she feels. On the other hand, John is unable to recognize that her sexual advances are based on her affection for him. He, too, loves Lenina, but, plagued by low self-worth, is unable to tell Lenina as much.

Watson and John’s friendship blossoms at first. Though they both seem to appreciate poetry, their worlds are ultimately irreconcilable.