# VI explained — Little Caesar

> Chapter companion for Little Caesar by W. R. Burnett.

## What happens

Rico learns that Joe Massara has turned state's evidence, forcing him and Otero to flee from the police. Otero is shot and killed during their escape, and Rico narrowly evades capture by hiding in a building and slipping out the front.

## Themes in this chapter

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Joe Massara's betrayal by turning state's evidence triggers the chapter's crisis, while Otero's loyalty leads to his death.

### Fate and Inevitability

Rico's realization that his rise is over and he is now a hunted man underscores the inescapable consequences of his criminal life.

## Character check-ins

### Rico

Flees from police after learning Joe Massara has informed on him; escapes through a building after Otero is shot.

### Ramón Otero

Warns Rico about Joe's betrayal; is shot by a policeman and dies urging Rico to run.

### Blondy Belle

Informs Rico that the police are after him and that Joe squealed; stays behind as Rico and Otero escape.

### Killer Pepi

Goes to Rico's apartment and then to Otero's to warn them; later tries to reach Rico by phone.

### Joe Massara

Has turned state's evidence, leading to the police hunt for Rico.

### Jim Flaherty

Arrives at Rico's building with a police car, sent by the Big Boy to talk to Rico.

## Key lines

> Joe squealed. You ought to plugged that softie, Rico. You ought to plugged him.

Blondy tells Rico that Joe Massara has informed on him and that he should have killed Joe when he had the chance.

_Blondy's outburst highlights the theme of betrayal and Rico's regret._

> Run, Rico, run. They got me sure. I can't feel nothing.

Otero, mortally wounded, urges Rico to flee and save himself.

_Otero's final act of loyalty and sacrifice._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/little_caesar_se/chapters/part-vi-vi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/little_caesar_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/little_caesar_se/chapters