# II explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by R. A. Lafferty.

## What happens

The blob, now calling himself George Albert Leroy Ellery McIntosh, is sold to Billy Wilkins for his reptile ranch. He is placed in a snake house with a python named Pete, and later meets Blackjack Bracken, who proposes a nightclub act. The blob negotiates a joint contract, demonstrating his intelligence and adaptability. He also talks to birds and turtles, and befriends Eustace, a painter who gives him his human name.

## Themes in this chapter

### Identity and Self-Worth

The blob adopts a human name and negotiates his own worth, asserting his value beyond being a mere exhibit.

### Human Connection and Isolation

The blob seeks connection with humans and animals, but often finds himself isolated by their limited understanding.

### The Absurd and Inexplicable

The blob's existence and abilities (flying, talking, multiple voice boxes) are treated as both wondrous and absurd by the humans.

## Character check-ins

### George Albert Leroy Ellery McIntosh

The blob adopts this name given by Eustace, negotiates his contract, and interacts with various creatures and humans.

### Billy Wilkins

Billy buys the blob from Cecil and his friends, puts him in the snake house, and later discusses a contract with Blackjack Bracken.

### Eustace

Eustace is a black grub who paints the blob's portrait and suggests the name George Albert Leroy Ellery McIntosh.

### Cecil

Cecil is one of the blob's loud friends who sells him to Billy Wilkins for ten dollars.

### Casper Craig

Referred to as Blackjack Bracken, he proposes a nightclub act for the blob and negotiates a joint contract.

## Key lines

> “There must be an element of utility, yes,” I told them. “But the dominant motif should be beauty. The impression of expanded vistas can be given by long low walls and parapets.”

The blob advises birds that a nest should be both useful and beautiful, suggesting design elements like low walls for a sense of space.

_The blob applies his aesthetic philosophy to bird nest construction._

> “Snakes always have bad consciences. We have forgotten the crime, but we remember the guilt.”

Pete the python explains that snakes feel guilt for an unknown original sin.

_A humorous take on original sin and guilt._

> “I will not dump Billy. He befriended me and gave me a home with the turtles and snakes. I will sign a joint contract with the two of you.”

The blob insists on including Billy Wilkins in any contract out of loyalty for his initial kindness.

_The blob shows a sense of loyalty and fairness._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_45_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_45_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_45_se/chapters