One Day

Part 4 begins with Emma and Dexter seemingly finding their footing at last. In Chapter 16, they are an established couple, evidenced by the routine they’ve established, down to the time of their morning goodbye. This routine symbolizes the stability they now embrace, which offers a stark departure from their tumultuous past, underscoring the themes of The Evolution and Complexities of Relationships Over Time and Personal Growth and Self-Discovery. Their previous “yearning and anguish and passion [has] been replaced by a steady pulse of pleasure and satisfaction and occasional irritation” (283), reflecting their emotional maturity, both as individuals and as a couple. Moreover, Emma is a successful novelist, and Dexter has found fulfillment in his new business venture, which also provides healing after his mother’s death, as she’d urged him to do something good with his life. In Chapter 16, Dexter admits he finally feels happy, a word that he settles on after debating on whether he feels “content” or “happyish” (266)—Dexter is so accustomed to feelings of discontent that he struggles to articulate his positive emotions. Emma and Dexter’s holiday in Chapter 17, spent in a small and dim cottage, represents their newfound intimacy and closeness, as well as their calm attitudes as they enter marriage. They are certain of their love for each other after 15 years of missed connections, highlighting the theme of The Influence of Timing and Chance in Life.

Part 4, however, isn’t entirely filled with joy and positivity—it also delves into the challenges within Emma and Dexter’s lives and relationship. Chapter 18 addresses aging, a recurring motif throughout the entire novel. In this chapter, Dexter grapples with the physical effects of aging, exemplifying the theme of Navigating Life’s Expectations and Realities. Dexter had hoped to “age like a movie star: wiry, aquiline, grey-templed, sophisticated” (277). However, as he looks at his reflection in the mirror, he observes the greying hair, sagging skin, and extra weight. He laments the loss of his former charm and allure. Emma also confronts the passage of time and the changes it brings, reflecting on her younger self and her strong, unwavering ideals. She regrets that she isn’t as curious or passionate as she once was. Comparing her past aspirations to her present reality, she can’t help but feel a sense of disconnect and mundanity. Like Dexter, Emma finds herself navigating and coming to terms with the reality of aging, realizing that she has grown into a person she never expected to be. The theme of Navigating Life’s Expectations and Realities is further explored in Emma and Dexter’s relationship, which, after three years of bliss, is challenged by their struggles with fertility. This highlights that even the most passionate lovers face difficulties and strain when confronted with significant challenges. As many couples struggle with fertility, this lends greater authenticity to their romance: It is not a fairy tale.

Emma’s sudden and unexpected death serves as a significant twist in the novel, especially because the story appeared to be conforming to the conventions of a romance novel: After enduring numerous challenges, Emma and Dexter have found happiness together. Emma’s tragic death challenges these conventions, offering a realistic portrayal of life where love doesn't always guarantee a happy ending. This unexpected turn of events conveys The Influence of Timing and Chance in Life, which has colored the whole of their relationship—Emma is hit by a car going to visit the new house that Dexter wants to see, despite her objections. However, before getting on her bicycle, Emma calls Dexter to tell him she loves him and will meet him at the house. While Emma’s life ends in tragedy, Dexter and Emma’s love ends with kindness. However, the house itself foreshadows Dexter’s grief and guilt over Emma’s death.

Part 4 ends with the sentence, “Then Emma Mayhew dies, and everything that she thought or felt vanishes and is gone forever” (286), furthering the realism of the narrative. Nicholls presents a non-romantic, sobering portrayal of reality. Moreover, Emma’s death imbues significance to the date, July 15, which recurs annually in the novel—it is, among other things, the anniversary of her passing.

Though it functions as a twist, Emma’s death is subtly foreshadowed throughout Part 4. Dexter’s reflection that “everything will be fine, just as long as nothing ever changes” (267) initially appears hopeful, but it also bears an ominous undertone, hinting at an eventual disruption—despite Dexter’s yearning for permanence, things won’t stay the same. Emma’s death is also foreshadowed by the weather in Chapter 18, described as “gloomy and nondescript” (282). As Emma leaves the sports center, the clouds darken and rain begins to fall, casting a gloomy atmosphere that evokes a sense of impending tragedy.