relationships in howards end ?

Connecting is perhaps the most important theme of the novel, as the words "Only connect" make up its epigraph. Connections are necessary on many levels. Connecting within oneself is highly important, which is seen most clearly in Mr. Wilcox's personal development. Margaret knows Mr. Wilcox could be a better man if he could just connect the prose and the passion inside of himself rather than devoting his life to practicality and business. Forster also demonstrates the importance of connecting with others in a meaningful rather than superficial way. To achieve this, one must penetrate the inner life rather than relying on the outer life. For example, when Leonard Bast speaks with the Schlegels after his all-night walk, he references many authors and books, but the Schlegels are only interested in his personal view of the experience.

The Schlegels and Wilcoxes represent different approaches to life, that which celebrates the inner life, and that which celebrates the outer life. The novel works to bring these two concepts together, and finally unites them through Margaret and Mr. Wilcox's marriage and eventual settling at Howards End. The path to this final connection is fraught with drama and tragedy, but the end result is one of peace, happiness, and stability. Thus, in connecting to each other and embracing differences, Margaret, Mr. Wilcox, and Helen are able to find satisfaction.