# Chapter XV explained — Elmer Gantry

> Chapter companion for Elmer Gantry by Sinclair Lewis.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters/chapter-xv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/elmer_gantry_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/elmer_gantry_se/chapters