The Grand Babylon Hotel · Chapter
I: The Millionaire and the Waiter explained
Theodore Racksole, a wealthy American millionaire, arrives at the Grand Babylon Hotel and orders an 'Angel Kiss,' a drink unfamiliar to the head waiter Jules, causing tension.
What happens
Theodore Racksole, a wealthy American millionaire, arrives at the Grand Babylon Hotel and orders an 'Angel Kiss,' a drink unfamiliar to the head waiter Jules, causing tension. Jules and Miss Spencer discuss Racksole and his daughter Nella, who is staying in room 111. The chapter establishes the hotel's exclusive, anti-American atmosphere and introduces key staff and the Racksoles.
Themes in this chapter
American vs. European Culture
The conflict between Racksole's American informality and the Grand Babylon's rigid European traditions is central to the chapter.
Class and Snobbery
Jules and Miss Spencer's disdain for Racksole's request reflects the hotel's snobbish attitude toward those who do not conform to its standards.
Wealth and Power
Racksole's status as the third richest man in the U.S. contrasts with the hotel's attempt to assert its own authority over guests.
Characters to notice
- Theodore Racksole
A wealthy American millionaire who orders an Angel Kiss, causing friction with the head waiter.
- Jules
The celebrated head waiter of the Grand Babylon, who is offended by Racksole's request for an American drink.
- Nella Racksole
Theodore Racksole's daughter, staying in room 111, who finds the hotel's cuisine unappealing.
- Miss Spencer
The bureau clerk of the Grand Babylon, who discusses Racksole with Jules and manages guest assignments.
- Félix Babylon
The proprietor of the Grand Babylon, referred to as 'Babs' by Jules, Miss Spencer, and Rocco.
- Rocco
The renowned chef of the Grand Babylon, earning two thousand a year, mentioned as one of the three gods of the hotel.
Key passages
“Bring me an Angel Kiss.”
Racksole orders a cocktail called an Angel Kiss, which Jules does not recognize.
This request sparks the central conflict of the chapter.
“This isn't an American hotel, sir.”
Jules informs Racksole that the Grand Babylon does not cater to American tastes.
Highlights the cultural tension between American and European hotel customs.
“I will send the drink to you, sir.”
Jules reluctantly agrees to fulfill the order but with clear disapproval.
Shows Jules's passive-aggressive response to Racksole's demand.