“Are you screaming from the other side?
Believe me, I know what it’s like
To lay awake all through the night…”
~ The Silversun Pickups.
March & April 1890.
Alone in his room, a despondent Vincent has been feeling Pierre’s absence. Meanwhile, Gauguin and de Haan rent a cottage in Le Pouldu. Emile comes for a visit, leading to Gauguin inquiring about Madeleine and asks if she ever received his reply. Emile has no idea about Paul’s letter and shares the news of her engagement with Charles Laval, which enrages Paul. He accuses Emile of betraying him, since Laval was a friend of Paul’s from their time together in Panama and Martinique.
As Vincent receives Theo’s latest letter, Dr. Peyron summons him to his office. During their meeting, he inquires about Vincent’s well-being and outlook since Pierre’s departure. Vincent admits it’s been difficult and feels like the walls are closing in, adding that he’s not sure if, or when, he’ll be able to leave the asylum. Dr. Peyron asks Vincent about his purpose, or his “big why,” causing Vincent to hesitate. He also mentions the exhibition in Brussels and is pleased to hear about the sale of his first painting. Vincent appreciates the pep talk.
As Theo and Jo celebrate their first anniversary, Emile tells Gauguin that he needs to return to his grandmother’s house in Lille since she’s the only one who supports his dream of being an artist. Paul reciprocates and shares his idea of traveling to Martinique, far from the hypocrisy of “civilized society.” As for Pierre, he boards a ship in Marseilles which is bound for NYC.
