In some ways, 'A Painful Case' is the most sophisticated and complex Dubliners story yet, as it achieves its powerful effect through a deft combination of storytelling techniques and symbolism. As in the earlier story, Joyce seemingly intends the reader to believe that such an opportunity will never come again. Tragically (and typically), both are paralyzed: Eveline by guilt and fear, and Duffy by fear as well - fear that his fanatically orderly world will be thrown into disarray by shared passion. Just as Eveline's fiancé presents her the chance to escape Ireland, Duffy is allowed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with a kindred soul, Mrs.

Like 'Eveline,' this is a story of missed opportunity, and true to its title, 'A Painful Case' is perhaps even more agonizing to read than that earlier selection. Sinico, realizing that her aloneness mirrored his own - and that he is now more alone than ever. Sinico's suicide? Finally he identifies and empathizes with Mrs. Then Duffy begins to feel guilty: Did his rejection of her result in Mrs. At first he feels revolted, ashamed that he ever considered her a peer. Four years later, Duffy reads in the newspaper about Mrs. Sinico reaches for Duffy's hand, however, he insists that they stop seeing one another.

They meet regularly to discuss art and ideas, first at her house (with the full knowledge of her husband, Captain Sinico), and then at her cottage outside the city, where they grow close both intellectually and emotionally. A solitary, effete bank cashier named James Duffy becomes acquainted with a woman named Mrs.

A painful case james joyce