# XXI explained — The Plastic Age

> Chapter companion for The Plastic Age by Percy Marks.

## What happens

Hugh settles into a routine of movies, poetry, drinking, and gambling. He joins a poker game at Ted Allen's room, where the stakes escalate and Hugh experiences both winning and losing. Despite his initial intentions to leave early to study for a quiz, he gets drawn deeper into the game. After leaving with George Winsor, they overhear Freddy Fowler reading 'Marpessa,' a poem that captivates them.

## Themes in this chapter

### Alcohol and Excess

Hugh's daily drinking from Vinton and his growing acceptance of vices like smoking and gambling.

### Disillusionment and Loss of Innocence

Hugh's gradual abandonment of his earlier ideals about running and self-discipline.

### College Life: Idealism vs. Reality

The contrast between Hugh's academic responsibilities and his immersion in gambling and social pressures.

## Character check-ins

### Hugh Carver

Participates in a high-stakes poker game, struggles with self-control and gambling addiction.

### George Winsor

Joins the poker game, loses money, and leaves with Hugh.

### Ted Allen

Hosts the poker game, remains calm and wins consistently, suspected of cheating.

### Mandel

Loses heavily in the poker game and becomes irritable.

### Freddy Fowler

Reads 'Marpessa' aloud, impressing Hugh and Winsor.

## Key lines

> For the first term Hugh slid comfortably down a well oiled groove of routine.

Hugh fell into a comfortable, predictable pattern during his first term.

_Describes Hugh's initial adjustment to college life._

> I’m a damn fool to play... a plain damn fool, I oughtn’t to waste my time at it, but I’m a regular fiend for the game.

Winsor acknowledges he is foolish to gamble but admits he is addicted.

_Reflects the theme of gambling addiction and self-awareness._

> He had just about decided that he wasn’t a runner, anyway.

Hugh gave up on his identity as a runner.

_Shows Hugh's loss of discipline and change in self-perception._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_plastic_age_se/chapters/xxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_plastic_age_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_plastic_age_se/chapters