Short Fiction · Chapter
I: Drafted explained
Gilbert Connatt, a down-on-his-luck former film star, is eating at a Times Square hamburger stand when he is found by Jake Switz, the press agent for actress Sigrid Holgar.
What happens
Gilbert Connatt, a down-on-his-luck former film star, is eating at a Times Square hamburger stand when he is found by Jake Switz, the press agent for actress Sigrid Holgar. Jake persuades Gib to meet the mysterious producer Varduk about a role in a horror play written by Lord Byron. Despite his pride and past falling-out with Sigrid, Gib reluctantly agrees to consider the offer.
Themes in this chapter
The Power of Belief and Ritual
Jake Switz's fervent belief in the play's horror and Varduk's mysterious authority suggest the power of belief in the theatrical ritual.
Fear and Control
Jake's fear of Varduk's retribution and the play's intended terror highlight themes of fear and control.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Connatt
The protagonist, a former film star now down on his luck, eating at a hamburger stand.
- Jake Switz
Press agent for Sigrid Holgar, who persuades Gib to meet Varduk about a role.
- Varduk
Mysterious producer who suggested Gib for the lead in the horror play.
- Miss Holgar
Sigrid Holgar, the actress and Gib's former lover, who agreed to have Gib as her leading man.
- Gib
Nickname for Gilbert Connatt, used throughout the chapter.
Key passages
“I’m not in pictures”
Gib denies being a movie actor, though he once was.
Gib's current state of denial about his past career.
“Varduk would cut my heart out and feed it to the sparrows if I found you and lost you again.”
Jake is terrified of Varduk's reaction if he fails to bring Gib to him.
Jake's fear of Varduk's power and control.