At the start of Chapter 18, what does John plan to do?

• A. Retire to a place of his own, far from society
• B. Return to London to confront his past
• C. Join a monastery near the lighthouse
• D. Move into a public residence for reform

Answer: (A)

John is seeking private space and freedom from the pressures of civilization. At the start of this chapter he envisions withdrawing to a place of his own, far from society, where he can be solitary, think deeply, and live by his own standards rather than by the World State’s norms. This plan reflects his longing for authentic personal experience, away from crowds and conditioning. He isn’t aiming to confront his past in London right now, join a religious institution, or move into a public reform setting; his impulse is toward isolation and personal autonomy, even if it means stepping away from others entirely.