Mr. Bickersdyke Makes a Concession explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Authority and Rebellion

  Psmith rebels against Bickersdyke's authority by blackmailing him with his radical past, subverting the power dynamic.

• Social Performance and Identity

  Bickersdyke's past socialist speeches contrast with his current conservative persona, highlighting the performative nature of identity.

• Humor and Absurdity

  The absurdity of Psmith's calm blackmail in a Turkish bath, with Bickersdyke's futile attempts to escape, drives the chapter's comedy.

Characters to notice

• Psmith

  Confronts Mr. Bickersdyke in the Turkish bath, using blackmail to secure Mike's job.

• Mr. Bickersdyke

  Reluctantly concedes to Psmith's demands, agreeing not to dismiss Mike Jackson.

• Mike Jackson

  Referenced as the employee whose dismissal is at stake; Psmith negotiates on his behalf.

• Strowther

  Mentioned as a former member of the Tulse Hill Parliament who criticized Bickersdyke's speech.

• young Tom Barlow

  Recalled as the Speaker of the Tulse Hill Parliament during Bickersdyke's radical speech.

Key passages

• “It is a quiet backwater in the rushing river of Life. I like to sit and think in a Turkish Bath. Except, of course, when I have a congenial companion to talk to. As now.”

  Psmith describes the Turkish bath as a peaceful retreat from life's hustle, but prefers chatting with a companion.

  Psmith's characteristic blend of whimsy and persistence as he corners Bickersdyke.

• “I forbid you to send those speeches to the papers.”

  Bickersdyke orders Psmith not to publish his old radical speeches.

  Bickersdyke's desperation as Psmith's blackmail takes effect.

• “Very well. Jackson shall stop.”

  Bickersdyke agrees not to dismiss Mike Jackson.

  The pivotal concession that resolves the chapter's conflict.