# Le Roy Goldman explained — Spoon River Anthology

> Chapter companion for Spoon River Anthology by Edgar Lee Masters.

## What happens

Le Roy Goldman, a revivalist, reflects on the fear of death for those who have rejected Jesus. He suggests that the presence of a loving family member who knew you intimately can intercede for you before God, providing comfort and guidance in the final moments.

## Themes in this chapter

### Death and Legacy

The chapter focuses on the moment of death and the legacy of one's faith or lack thereof.

### The Search for Meaning

Goldman questions the meaning of a life without Jesus and seeks assurance through familial love.

## Character check-ins

### Le Roy Goldman

The revivalist who contemplates death and the importance of familial intercession.

## Key lines

> What will you do when you come to die, If all your life long you have rejected Jesus, And know as you lie there, He is not your friend?

How will you face death if you have spent your whole life rejecting Jesus and realize in your final moments that He is not on your side?

_Goldman poses a rhetorical question about the consequences of a life without faith._

> That is the hand your hand will reach for, To lead you along the corridor To the court where you are a stranger!

That is the hand you will grasp to guide you through the passage to the judgment where you are unknown.

_Goldman emphasizes the role of a loved one as a guide and advocate in the afterlife._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/spoon_river_anthology_se/chapters/le-roy-goldman
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/spoon_river_anthology_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/spoon_river_anthology_se/chapters