Back to Book List
A Wrinkle in Time
Book One: A Wrinkle in Time
The Return
Chapter Summary
In the concluding chapter titled 'The Return', Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin O'Keefe find themselves back on Earth after their harrowing journey through time and space to rescue Meg's father, Mr. Murry. As they arrive, the familiar sights of their neighborhood greet them, yet there is a profound change within each of them due to the experiences they've endured.
The chapter begins with the trio landing in a field near their home, where the warm sunlight feels different, as if it carries the weight of their adventure. Despite the comfort of returning to a familiar place, Meg is acutely aware of the transformative journey they have just undertaken. She reflects on the struggles they faced, particularly the confrontation with IT, the embodiment of evil, and the lessons learned about love, courage, and the importance of individuality.
Meg’s internal conflict is significant as she grapples with her previous feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Throughout their adventure, she discovered the strength of her love for her family, especially for her father, which ultimately became the key to overcoming the darkness they battled. This realization empowers her, and she begins to understand that her perceived flaws can be a source of strength.
The children share a moment of camaraderie, discussing their experiences and acknowledging the bonds that have deepened between them. Calvin expresses his admiration for Meg's bravery, and Charles Wallace, with his remarkable intellect, contributes insights about their journey and the nature of good and evil. The trio recognizes that while their adventure has concluded, the lessons they learned will shape their lives moving forward.
Returning home also brings a sense of relief and normalcy, yet the impact of the experiences lingers. Meg's mother, Mrs. Murry, is overjoyed to see her children return safe and sound, illustrating the theme of familial love that runs throughout the narrative. As they reunite, the children realize that the love shared within their family is a powerful force that can combat the darkness of the universe.
In the final moments of the chapter, Meg contemplates the idea of time and the universe, pondering the tesseract and the many dimensions they encountered. She understands that while they may have returned to their home, the adventure has altered their perceptions of reality and the complexities of existence. The chapter closes on a hopeful note, emphasizing that love is the most potent weapon against evil, and the children are now equipped with a profound understanding of their capabilities and the boundless power of love, which they will carry with them into their future.
Overall, 'The Return' encapsulates the central themes of the novel—love, courage, and the resilience of the human spirit—while highlighting the growth and transformation of Meg and her friends as they navigate their way back to the world they know.