At the beginning of chapter 19 of David Copperfield, the title character candidly informs us of his lack of regret upon leaving school. Although David had been very happy at Doctor Strong's and had a great attachment to the Doctor, he is generally quite glad to put his school days behind him.

Truth be told, David's rather excited at leaving school and making his first steps into the adult world. Up until this point, David's life had been marked—and marred—by a lack of independence. Leaving school means that now, for the first time in his short life, he can control his own destiny to a considerable extent.

Intoxicated by the prospect of freedom, young David experiences powerful visions in his boyish mind. He fantasizes about being a young man at his own disposal—a young man with the freedom and independence to chart his own course in life. He thinks of all the wonderful things he can now see and do and of the equally wonderful impact that he cannot fail to make upon society.

The prospect of entering society positively thrills David to his fingertips. Ready to take his place in the adult world, he is determined to make a very big splash indeed.