Nordenholt’s Million · Chapter
IX: Intermezzo explained
The narrator describes the intense strain of his work in the Nitrogen Area, contrasting it with a peaceful evening at Nordenholt's home.
What happens
The narrator describes the intense strain of his work in the Nitrogen Area, contrasting it with a peaceful evening at Nordenholt's home. Elsa Huntingtower shares her backstory, revealing that Nordenholt raised her after her parents died and that she has three wishes, the first being to train as a secretary. The evening includes a tense moment where Elsa promises to stand by Nordenholt no matter what, and Nordenholt insists on weekly outings to preserve their health.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Personal Sacrifice
Elsa's promise to stand by Nordenholt and her recounting of his care for her as a child highlight themes of loyalty and personal devotion amidst crisis.
Utopian Dreams vs. Reality
The narrator's longing for the lost civilized world and the harshness of the new order illustrate the tension between utopian aspirations and grim reality.
Characters to notice
- Nordenholt
Shows a caring side as Elsa recounts how he comforted her as a child; participates in the evening's conversation and insists on weekly outings to prevent burnout.
- Elsa Huntingtower
Reveals her upbringing by Nordenholt, her three wishes, and her deep loyalty to him; her presence brings a softer atmosphere to the narrator's harsh routine.
- Flint
The narrator, overwhelmed by work, finds respite in the evening's civilized setting and reflects on the contrast between his current life and the old world.
- Henley-Davenport
Present at the dinner, contributing to conversation but not deeply engaged in lighter topics.
Key passages
“I was beginning to look back on the old life in London, with its theatre parties and dinners, as if it were another existence which I should never reenter. I seemed shut off from it by some nebulous yet impenetrable curtain; and when I thought of it at times, I felt that it had passed away beyond recall.”
The narrator feels that his former life of leisure in London is permanently lost, separated from him by an invisible barrier.
Highlights the theme of utopian dreams vs. reality and the psychological impact of the catastrophe.
“I don’t understand,” she said at last. “You never doubted me before. It hurts. Of course I promise you. No matter what happens I won’t leave you. But you must promise never to send me away until I want to go.” “Very good, Elsa, I promise.””
Elsa pledges unwavering loyalty to Nordenholt, asking only that he never force her to leave, and he agrees.
Emphasizes the theme of love and personal sacrifice, as well as the deepening bond between Elsa and Nordenholt.