# Chapter XXXIII explained — Main Street

> Chapter companion for Main Street by Sinclair Lewis.

## What happens

Carol Kennicott, now living in Washington D.C. with her son Hugh, reflects on her life in Gopher Prairie and her new experiences. She works as a clerk, enjoys the anonymity of the city, and observes the diversity of people. She considers her marriage to Will Kennicott and her return to Gopher Prairie, ultimately deciding to go back.

## Themes in this chapter

### The American Dream and Materialism

Carol's pursuit of a more fulfilling life in Washington D.C. contrasts with the materialistic values of Gopher Prairie, highlighting the tension between personal dreams and societal expectations.

### Illusion vs. Reality

Carol's initial romanticized view of Washington D.C. gives way to a more realistic understanding of her own desires and limitations, leading to her decision to return to Gopher Prairie.

## Character check-ins

### Carol Kennicott

Living in Washington D.C., working as a clerk, reflecting on her life and deciding to return to Gopher Prairie.

### Hugh Kennicott

Carol's son, living with her in Washington D.C.

### Dr. Will Kennicott

Carol's husband, who remains in Gopher Prairie and corresponds with her.

## Key lines

> She was a clerk in the Bureau of War Risk Insurance. She had a desk in a room with thirty other clerks.

Carol works as a clerk in a government office, sharing a workspace with many others.

_Describes Carol's job and work environment in Washington D.C._

> She was not a person but a machine for the filing of cards.

Carol feels dehumanized by her repetitive clerical work.

_Highlights Carol's sense of alienation in her job._

> She had been in Washington for a year and a half.

Carol has lived in Washington D.C. for eighteen months.

_Indicates the duration of Carol's stay in the capital._

> She was going back to Gopher Prairie.

Carol has decided to return to her hometown.

_Carol's decision to return to Gopher Prairie._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/main_street_se/chapters/xxxiii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/main_street_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/main_street_se/chapters