An American Tragedy · Chapter
XXXIV explained
Clyde, desperate to find a remedy for Roberta's pregnancy, considers seeking help from druggists in Schenectady.
What happens
Clyde, desperate to find a remedy for Roberta's pregnancy, considers seeking help from druggists in Schenectady. He devises a cover story of being a newly married man unable to afford a child, but his nerve fails him repeatedly as he rejects one drugstore after another. Finally, he enters a store and makes his request, only to be rebuffed by a religious druggist who refuses to help. He eventually finds a seventh dealer who provides a remedy, but his cold and casual demeanor afterward leaves Roberta feeling abandoned and anxious about their future.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy of Religion and Morality
The druggist's refusal to help based on religious beliefs contrasts with Clyde's desperate, pragmatic need, highlighting societal hypocrisy around sexuality and reproduction.
Isolation and Alienation
Clyde's inability to confide in anyone and Roberta's lonely wait underscore their profound isolation from society and each other.
The Female Body and Control
Roberta's pregnancy places her body at the mercy of Clyde's actions and societal restrictions, illustrating the lack of agency women faced.
Characters to notice
- Clyde Griffiths
Desperate and anxious, Clyde seeks an abortifacient in Schenectady, using a false married-man story, but struggles with fear and moral qualms.
- Roberta Alden
Pregnant and isolated, Roberta receives the remedy from Clyde but is left feeling uncertain and abandoned by his indifferent attitude.
- Thomas Ratterer
Mentioned by Clyde as someone who would know how to handle such a situation, highlighting Clyde's reliance on past acquaintances.
- Oscar Hegglund
Also mentioned as a potential source of help, reflecting Clyde's nostalgia for his former friends.
- Davis Higby
Recalled by Clyde for a phrase about being 'past her time,' showing Clyde's limited knowledge of such matters.
Key passages
“His mind was troubled with hard, abrasive thoughts as to what the druggist might think, look or say.”
Clyde's mind was filled with harsh, grinding worries about how the druggist might judge him.
Captures Clyde's anxiety and self-consciousness as he contemplates seeking help.
“I'm sorry, young man, but I'm afraid I can't help you in this case. I haven't a thing of that kind in stock here—never handle anything of that kind because I don't believe in 'em.”
The druggist refused to assist Clyde, stating he never stocked such items due to his personal beliefs.
Illustrates the moral and religious barriers Clyde faces in his quest.
“Oh, Clyde! Clyde!”
Roberta cried out in despair, feeling abandoned and uncertain after Clyde's cold departure.
Highlights Roberta's emotional distress and sense of betrayal.