In Graham Greene's The End of the Affair, the narrative unfolds through the perspective of Maurice Bendrix, a writer who grapples with the complexities of love, jealousy, and spiritual awakening. Bendrix recounts the tale of his tumultuous past affair with Sarah Miles, the wife of a man named Henry, and the emotional aftermath that follows. The story delves deep into themes of faith, betrayal, and redemption, revealing the intricate web of human relationships and the mysterious workings of fate.

Beginnings of Unrest

The novel opens with Bendrix, who identifies himself as the storyteller, asserting his control over the narrative, deciding which details to share and which to withhold. His story begins one stormy evening when he encounters Henry Miles, Sarah’s unsuspecting husband. Seeking shelter from the rain, they enter a bar where Henry confides in Bendrix about his suspicions that Sarah might be unfaithful. Feigning friendship, Bendrix offers to help Henry by hiring a private investigator to uncover the truth. However, Bendrix’s motives are far from altruistic; his jealousy and unresolved feelings for Sarah drive his actions. Haunted by their abrupt breakup, Bendrix is desperate to understand why Sarah ended the affair and grapples with feelings of envy and bitterness. Throughout the novel, Bendrix acknowledges the presence of an inner demon that fuels his deceit and malice.

Unveiling Secrets

Despite Henry's decision to abandon the investigation, Bendrix is determined to proceed and employs a detective named Mr. Parkis. Parkis’s surveillance of Sarah yields scant information, yet it's enough to stir suspicion. When Henry learns of Bendrix’s undercover efforts, he confronts Bendrix, who admits to his past involvement with Sarah. Surprisingly, the two men maintain their composure and discuss the affair candidly. Parkis discovers that Sarah has been visiting a man named Richard Smythe. Bendrix, posing as an interested party, visits Smythe only to find a rationalist engaged in theological discussions with Sarah.

Revelations and Vows

Parkis continues his investigation, eventually obtaining Sarah’s diary under the guise of attending a social gathering at the Miles’s residence. Eager for answers, Bendrix delves into the diary, uncovering Sarah’s heartfelt reflections on their relationship and the fateful day that led her to abandon him. During an air raid, what seemed like Bendrix's final moments prompted Sarah to fervently pray for his survival, promising God she would renounce her affair if he lived. With Bendrix’s unexpected return, Sarah interprets it as divine intervention, compelling her to honor her vow by ending their relationship.

Spiritual Awakening

Sarah’s internal battle persists beyond the air raid, leading her on a tumultuous spiritual journey. Frustrated yet hopeful, she seeks logical reasons to rekindle her romance with Bendrix, oscillating between love and resentment toward God. Ultimately, Sarah finds solace in her faith, embracing the notion of divine love that surpasses earthly desires. She comes to view her relationship with Bendrix as a stepping stone to a more profound, spiritual connection with God. Sarah’s newfound faith inspires her to pray for Bendrix, wishing for him to experience the peace she has found.

Chasing the Past

Convinced by the diary that Sarah’s feelings for him linger, Bendrix reaches out to her, believing he can offer genuine happiness over spiritual fulfillment. Yet, Sarah’s resolve remains firm, and she avoids meeting him. Despite his persistence, Sarah flees into the freezing night, unaware that Bendrix is trailing her. Eventually, she collapses, and Bendrix rushes to her side, proposing an escape together. Exhausted and ill, Sarah refuses, expressing a desire to return home. Bendrix reluctantly agrees, telling her to contact him when she recovers. Tragedy strikes when Bendrix receives a call from Henry, notifying him...