VIII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Power, Manipulation, and Jealousy

  Ross warns of Picus's manipulative intentions and the potential for Carston to be used as a tool, highlighting power dynamics and jealousy within the group.

• Nature as a Living Force

  The heath is described as a 'huge, broken honeycomb' and a 'blazing plain,' with the landscape actively influencing the characters' journey and mood.

• Sexuality and Desire

  Scylla and Picus's amourette is central to the conversation, with Scylla defending her desire and Ross expressing disapproval.

Characters to notice

• Dudley Carston

  Carston is taken to Starn and resents its life; he is bored and upset, and Ross suspects he may be used as a tool for trouble.

• Scylla Taverner

  Scylla walks ahead with Ross, defends her relationship with Picus, and reveals Picus has given her the cup.

• Picus

  Picus is Scylla's lover, described as light, winged, and holy; Ross warns he is up to no good and that his actions may be a move against Clarence.

• Ross

  Ross warns Scylla about Picus and Carston, expresses distrust of Americans, and senses that trouble is beginning.

• Felix Taverner

  Felix puts his foot down on antiquities and is mentioned as part of the group; he is asleep during Ross and Scylla's conversation.

• Clarence

  Clarence is mentioned as someone Picus is afraid of and who might be affected by Picus's actions.

Key passages

• “The first rule is that Picus is never up to any good.”

  Ross asserts that Picus always has ulterior motives.

  Ross warns Scylla about Picus's character.

• “Americans are bad players. At bridge or gardening, or life; especially when it is life as the sacred game.”

  Ross criticizes Americans for being inept at the serious play of life.

  Ross expresses his distrust of Carston and Americans in general.

• “Picus has given the cup to me.”

  Scylla reveals that Picus has entrusted her with the cup.

  Scylla discloses a key development in the cup's whereabouts.