Mrs. Dalloway- The Pocketknife

Throughout "Mrs. Dalloway," Peter often refers to the blade of his pocketknife. In general, a knife or another weapon represents power and capabilities. In the novel, Peter often fidgets the knife around in his hand, representing his inability to handle making decisions. Also, he feels that he needs to be "armed" (both physically and mentally) while meeting Clarissa, so he must carry the knife. Ironically, when they saw one another for the first time in years, Clarissa is using scissors while sewing. Even at the party, Peter mentions the knife before he enters. Peter and the knife reflect Peter's struggle of either accepting or denying English traditions. Overall, this knife represents the larger idea of power in society and those who are capable or either obtaining it or not.