Short Fiction · Chapter
Who Dealt? explained
In this chapter, the narrator, likely a woman, engages in a lengthy monologue during a bridge game, discussing topics ranging from a story written by her husband Tom to the peculiarities of a couple named Mr.
What happens
In this chapter, the narrator, likely a woman, engages in a lengthy monologue during a bridge game, discussing topics ranging from a story written by her husband Tom to the peculiarities of a couple named Mr. and Mrs. Guthrie. She recounts Tom's struggles to get his story published, attributing rejections to lack of connections rather than quality. She also shares anecdotes about the Guthries' incompatible tastes and argues that most couples disagree on things, while asserting that she and Tom are perfectly matched despite minor differences. The conversation is punctuated by bridge game commentary and playful teasing.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Gender Roles
The narrator discusses the differences between husbands and wives, using the Guthries as an example of incompatible tastes, while asserting her own marriage is harmonious despite minor disagreements. She also recounts how she changed Tom's habits, such as making him wear pajamas instead of nightgowns, reflecting gender expectations.
Celebrity and Artistic Integrity
Tom's struggle to get his story published highlights the theme of artistic integrity versus the need for connections or fame. The narrator suggests that unknown writers like Tom are at a disadvantage compared to established authors like Robert Chambers or Irving R. Cobb.
Satire of Media and Business
The chapter satirizes the publishing industry, where editors may not even read submissions, and success depends on 'pull' rather than merit. The narrator's anecdote about Mr. Hastings and the editor who didn't remember the story underscores this critique.
Characters to notice
- Tom Richards
Tom is the husband of the narrator, a writer whose story has been rejected by multiple magazines. He is also depicted as having changed his habits, such as giving up nightgowns for pajamas, and is teased about a poem he wrote about another girl.
- Ella
Ella is the narrator, who speaks throughout the chapter, sharing stories about Tom's writing, the Guthries, and her own preferences. She is also a bridge player, often distracted by conversation.
- Bert
Bert is likely the narrator's husband, also referred to as Tom, but the name 'Bert' appears in the aliases for this character. He is the subject of the narrator's anecdotes about his writing and personal habits.
- Mr. Guthrie
Mr. Guthrie is a wealthy lumberman from Portland, known for his dislike of bridge conventions and his arguments with his wife. He is described as enjoying motoring, dancing, and other activities.
- Mrs. Guthrie
Mrs. Guthrie is Mr. Guthrie's wife, a Bryn Mawr graduate from an old Philadelphia family, who dresses oddly and is very quiet. She plays bridge with all conventions and is interested in church work.
- Arthur
Arthur is a participant in the bridge game, likely the husband of Helen. He is compared to the well-off man in Tom's story and is teased about his attire.
- Helen
Helen is another bridge player, likely Arthur's wife, who is involved in the game and the conversation.
Key passages
“You’ve either got to have a name or a pull to get your things published. Or else pay the magazines to publish them.”
To get published, you need either fame, connections, or money to pay for it.
The narrator explains the difficulty for unknown writers to get published.
“He says it’s just like telling you what’s in each other’s hand.”
He thinks using bridge conventions is like revealing your cards to your partner.
Mr. Guthrie's objection to bridge conventions.
“I think it’s so funny in this day and age.”
I find it amusing that in modern times, Tom still wore nightgowns.
The narrator finds Tom's old-fashioned habit humorous.
