# The Leprechaun explained — The Moon Pool

> Chapter companion for The Moon Pool by A. Merritt.

## 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'.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_moon_pool_se/chapters/xvii-the-leprechaun
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_moon_pool_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_moon_pool_se/chapters