“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 visits, leading to Gauguin to ask after his sister and if she ever received his reply. Emile confesses that he has no idea about Paul’s letter and shares the news of her engagement with Charles Laval, which enrages Paul who accuses him of betraying their friendship.
As Vincent receives Theo’s latest letter, Dr. Peyron summons him to his office. During their meeting, he inquires about Vincent’s stability and well-being given Pierre’s departure. Vincent admits that the walls feel like they’re 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 “big why,” and inquires about the exhibition in Brussels. Vincent shares the news of his first sale.
As Theo and Jo celebrate their first anniversary, Emile shares with Gauguin how only his grandmother respects his artistic vision, and admits that he must return to her home. 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 bound for NYC.
