The Coming Race · Chapter
XXII explained
The narrator discusses with Aph-Lin the dangers of traveling alone among the Vril-ya, including the risk of being dissected or killed by a child with a vril staff.
What happens
The narrator discusses with Aph-Lin the dangers of traveling alone among the Vril-ya, including the risk of being dissected or killed by a child with a vril staff. He confesses his fear of Zee's romantic advances, and Aph-Lin warns that yielding would lead to his destruction. The chapter also describes the family's daily life, including Bra's management of the household, the sons' occupations, and the narrator's gift of a watch to the elder son.
Themes in this chapter
Utopian Society and Its Costs
The Vril-ya's peaceful order is maintained through strict control of outsiders and potential threats, as seen in the narrator's risk of dissection.
Gender Roles and Female Empowerment
Zee's independence and the Gy-ei's freedom to travel and choose spouses highlight female agency, contrasting with the narrator's fear of her advances.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
Expresses desire to travel and fear of Zee's advances; receives warning from Aph-Lin.
- Aph-Lin
Explains dangers of travel, warns narrator against Zee, and shows his country-seat.
- Zee
Mentioned as a potential travel companion and as having romantic interest in the narrator; described as a guardian figure.
- Taë
Previously begged off the narrator from dissection; mentioned as a child-friend and companion.
- Bra
Aph-Lin's wife, manages household and accounts, enjoys reading ancient literature.
- Tur
Mentioned as having taken the narrator in and summoned sages; his authority is referenced.
Key passages
“It is utterly impossible that you should go hence alone... Even among the Vril-ya you would be exposed to great dangers.”
Aph-Lin tells the narrator he cannot travel alone due to the risks posed by his unusual appearance and the Vril-ya's customs.
Highlights the narrator's vulnerability in the utopian society.
“if you yield, you will become a cinder.”
Aph-Lin warns that if the narrator gives in to Zee's romantic advances, he will be killed.
Emphasizes the severe consequences of violating social norms.