The Moon Pool · Chapter
The Leprechaun explained
Larry and Goodwin are interrogated by Yolara, Lugur, and the Murian council about the surface world, the World War, and the ruins.
What happens
Larry and Goodwin are interrogated by Yolara, Lugur, and the Murian council about the surface world, the World War, and the ruins. Larry later recounts a vision of a leprechaun warning him against Yolara and encouraging his loyalty to Lakla. Goodwin observes Murian society, including their music and the oppressive atmosphere, and saves Rador from a poisoned dart.
Themes in this chapter
Duality of Human Experience
Larry's leprechaun vision contrasts the magical, whimsical surface world with the oppressive, dangerous Murian environment, highlighting the duality of human experience.
Love and Loyalty
The leprechaun warns Larry to remain loyal to Lakla and not fall for Yolara, emphasizing themes of love and loyalty.
Colonialism and Otherness
The Murians' intense questioning about surface world governments, wars, and weapons reflects a colonial-like curiosity and fear of the 'other'.
Characters to notice
- Larry O'Keefe
Awaiting Goodwin after the shell ride; somber and watchful during the interrogation; later tells Goodwin about his leprechaun vision and teaches Yolara songs to keep his perspective.
- Yolara
Presides over the interrogation with Lugur; seeks Larry's company increasingly; sings a song Larry taught her, thinking it a love song.
- Lugur
Present at the interrogation; keeps information from Yolara; watches with amusement, knowing Marakinoff has told him about the girl of the rosy wall.
- Rador
Called by Yolara to escort Larry and Goodwin; accompanies Goodwin into the ladala dwelling; saved from a poisoned dart by Goodwin.
- Dr. Walter T. Goodwin
Narrator; questioned by the council; observes Murian society and saves Rador from an assassination attempt.
- Marakinoff
Implied to have told Lugur about the girl of the rosy wall; not directly present but referenced.
- Lakla
Referenced by Larry as the 'Golden Girl' and 'brown-haired coleen'; not physically present in the chapter.
Key passages
“The shell carried us straight back to the house of Yolara. Larry was awaiting me.”
The shell transported us directly to Yolara's house, where Larry was waiting for me.
Describes the return from the journey to Yolara's dwelling.
“Always he stressed the power of our surface races, their multitudes, their solidarity.”
He consistently emphasized the strength, numbers, and unity of the surface peoples.
Larry's strategy during the interrogation to intimidate the Murians.
“She's only a bird in a gilded cage, A bee-yu-tiful sight to see—”
She is merely a bird in a gilded cage, a beautiful sight to behold.
Yolara sings this song, thinking it a love song, while Larry uses it to maintain his perspective.
“That's what would have happened to Rador but for you, friend!”
That fate would have befallen Rador if not for you, my friend.
Rador's gratitude to Goodwin for saving him from the poisoned dart.