# XXI explained — Around the World in Eighty Days

> Chapter companion for Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne.

## What happens

The Tankadere races against time to reach Shanghai before the Yokohama steamer departs. Despite a storm that slows them, Fogg remains calm. They signal the departing steamer with a distress flag and cannon shot, hoping to be rescued. The chapter also covers Fix's internal conflict about traveling with Fogg and the search for Passepartout.

## Themes in this chapter

### Determination and Resilience

Fogg's calm persistence and the crew's desperate efforts to reach Shanghai despite the storm highlight their unwavering resolve.

### Adventure and Exploration

The risky voyage on a small boat through treacherous seas embodies the adventurous spirit of the journey.

### Time and Punctuality

The entire chapter revolves around the race against the clock to catch the steamer, emphasizing the critical importance of timing.

## Character check-ins

### Phileas Fogg

Remains tranquil and decisive, ordering the distress signal to catch the steamer.

### Aouda

Travels with Fogg, affected by the rough sea but eats with appetite; regrets Passepartout's absence.

### Fix

Accepts Fogg's hospitality reluctantly, broods over his mission, and worries about Passepartout reuniting with Fogg.

### John Bunsby

Pilot of the Tankadere, anxious about the reward but skillfully navigates the storm and signals the steamer.

### Passepartout

Mentioned as missing; Fogg and Aouda hope he may have boarded the Carnatic for Yokohama.

## Key lines

> Signal her!

Fogg calmly orders the pilot to signal the departing steamer.

_Demonstrates Fogg's composed leadership under pressure._

> This enters into my general expenses.

Fogg refuses Fix's offer to pay for his passage, treating it as part of his overall travel costs.

_Highlights Fogg's methodical and generous nature._

> Glad it’s a typhoon from the south, for it will carry us forward.

Fogg views the approaching typhoon as an opportunity to gain speed rather than a threat.

_Illustrates Fogg's optimistic and strategic thinking._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters/xxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/around_the_world_in_eighty_days_se/chapters