Look Homeward, Angel · Chapter
Chapter XXIII explained
Eugene continues his education under the Leonards, immersing himself in Shakespeare and other literature.
What happens
Eugene continues his education under the Leonards, immersing himself in Shakespeare and other literature. Eliza travels to Florida, leaving Eugene to board with the Leonards. Helen drifts through various cities, working menial musical jobs. Gant writes letters detailing his loneliness, financial worries, and observations of the family, including Ben's secretive behavior and Eugene's academic promise.
Themes in this chapter
The Search for Identity and Belonging
Eugene's immersion in literature reflects his quest for self-understanding and place in the world.
Family Conflict and Dysfunction
Gant's letters reveal family tensions, Eliza's absence, Ben's estrangement, and Helen's drifting.
The American Dream and Materialism
Gant's financial worries and Eliza's speculative Florida trip highlight the pursuit and anxiety of material success.
Characters to notice
- Eugene Gant
Boarding with the Leonards during Eliza's absence; deeply engaged in reading Shakespeare and other literature.
- Eliza Gant
Travels to Florida, exploring coastal towns and eventually visiting relatives in Orlando.
- Helen Gant
Drifting through Eastern and Midwestern cities, working in a cabaret and a five-and-ten-cent store; saves uncashed checks from Gant.
- Oliver Gant
Writes letters to Helen expressing loneliness, financial anxiety, and concern for the family; reports on Eugene's progress and Ben's aloofness.
- Ben Gant
Described as secretive and uncommunicative, seen late at night with Mrs. P.
- Margaret Leonard
Teaches Eugene Shakespeare and other poetry; introduces him to sonnets and plays.
- John Dorsey Leonard
Praises Eugene's abilities to Gant, calling him unmatched.
- Daisy
Eugene visits her for Christmas and wears his new suit.
Key passages
“He read a dozen of Scott, and liked best of all Quentin Durward, because the descriptions of food were as bountiful and appetizing as any he had ever read.”
Eugene enjoyed Scott's Quentin Durward most for its lavish food descriptions.
Shows Eugene's youthful appetite and literary taste.
“Your mother has gone off on another wild-goose chase to Florida, leaving me here alone to face the music, freeze, or starve.”
Gant complains that Eliza has abandoned him to endure winter hardships alone.
Highlights Gant's bitterness and sense of neglect.
“I see him downtown late at night sometimes with Mrs. P. They're thick as thieves together. I guess she's a bad egg.”
Gant observes Ben frequently with a woman he considers disreputable.
Reveals Ben's secretive social life and Gant's disapproval.