Elmer Gantry · Chapter
Chapter XV explained
Sharon Falconer opens her summer tabernacle, 'The Waters of Jordan,' on a pier in Clontar, New Jersey.
What happens
Sharon Falconer opens her summer tabernacle, 'The Waters of Jordan,' on a pier in Clontar, New Jersey. On opening night, a fire breaks out, causing panic. Elmer Gantry flees, but Sharon stays behind, holding a cross and marching into the flames. Earlier, Elmer flirts with pianist Lily Anderson, leading to Sharon firing them both.
Themes in this chapter
Manipulation and Showmanship in Evangelism
Sharon's theatrical tabernacle and Elmer's calculated flirtation with Lily highlight the performative and manipulative aspects of their ministry.
Faith vs. Skepticism
Sharon's faith is tested during the fire, while the workmen's cynical comments and Elmer's panic reveal skepticism and self-preservation.
Ambition and the Pursuit of Power
Sharon's ambition to build a permanent ministry and her vision of becoming a female messiah reflect her drive for power and influence.
Characters to notice
- Elmer Gantry
Flees the fire after Sharon refuses to leave; flirts with Lily Anderson, leading to his dismissal.
- Sharon Falconer
Opens her tabernacle; during the fire, she stays behind holding a cross; fires Elmer and Lily for their flirtation.
- Lily Anderson
Pianist for the revival; flirts with Elmer and is fired by Sharon.
- Adelbert Shoop
Helps organize the choir for the tabernacle opening.
- Art Nichols
Cornetist; Elmer is jealous of his attention to Lily Anderson.
Key passages
“Not a bad spieler, that woman. Puts it all over this guy Reverend Golding uptown.”
A workman comments that Sharon is a better preacher than the local minister.
Shows the public's perception of Sharon's skill and the competitive nature of revivalism.
“What could be more beautiful than a tabernacle like this, set on the bosom of the rolling deep?”
Sharon romanticizes the tabernacle's location by the sea during her sermon.
Highlights her poetic and dramatic preaching style.
“Don't be afraid! We're in the temple of the Lord! He won't harm you! I believe! Have faith! I'll lead you safely through the flames!”
Sharon urges the panicked crowd to trust in God's protection during the fire.
Demonstrates her extreme faith and willingness to risk her life.
“You can go to hell!”
Elmer angrily tells Sharon to flee as he abandons her.
Reveals Elmer's cowardice and selfishness under pressure.
“Both of you are discharged. Fired. Now! Don't ever let me see your faces again.”
Sharon fires Elmer and Lily after catching them flirting.
Shows Sharon's authority and intolerance for disloyalty.