Reading 1001 discussion

What happens to Stevens after he leaves Miss Kenton? What does he come to understand, what insights has he gained? Will he change—indeed, is he capable of change?

I think their parting conversation forced some truth on him, about what he sacrificed in his blind service. It takes him two days of silence before he considers what lies ahead for him. His attitude towards banter seems a step in the right direction, but the way he goes about it - a task to be mastered - is less promising.

The end just emphasised, rather sadly, that this is a man who has so devoted himself to the service of others that he has no personality of his own and his note to himself to try to cultivate a more light-hearted approach to life is actually pathetic.

I agree with both of you, I doubt he will ever really change, because it is much too late for him.