Themes

The main theme of the short story “A Painful Case” by James Joyce is that of isolation and loneliness. Additionally, the author also touches upon the theme of love disappointment, which he enhances through the motif of drinking.

Isolation and loneliness

“A Painful Case” is a circular story which ends where it begins, with the isolation and loneliness of the main character, James Duffy. But while in the beginning, Mr Duffy seems to be satisfied with his routines and isolation, perhaps being even unaware of them, in the end, he comes to realise the burden and the sadness of his situation: “He allowed himself to think that in certain circumstances he would rob his hank but, as these circumstances never arose, his life rolled out evenly — an adventureless tale.”;

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Love disappointments

The theme of love disappointments is explored through the character of Mrs Sinico. She is a woman deprived of love and understanding even if she is married and has a daughter. Her husband takes little interest in her. This disappointment is what pushes her to form a connection with Mr Duffy.

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