The Secret City · Chapter
II explained
Henry Bohun and Jerry Lawrence arrive in Petrograd, having traveled together for a week and finding they have nothing in common.
What happens
Henry Bohun and Jerry Lawrence arrive in Petrograd, having traveled together for a week and finding they have nothing in common. Bohun, a young poet recently published and self-satisfied, has cultivated a superficial understanding of Russia through language study and sentimental literature. Lawrence, by contrast, is more reserved. The chapter details Bohun's background: his ambition, his brief war service, his poetic success, and his adoption of Russia as a personal identity.
Themes in this chapter
Cultural Misunderstanding
Bohun's romanticized and patronizing view of Russia—seeing it as 'glittering with fire and colour' and Russians as 'large, warm, and simple'—demonstrates a profound cultural misunderstanding.
Youth and Idealism
Bohun's youthful ambition, his belief in his own genius, and his idealistic vision of Russia and his own future exemplify the theme of youth and idealism.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Bohun's adoption of Russia as part of his identity ('I really think I do understand Russia') and his self-perception as 'absolutely right' highlight his ongoing, albeit misguided, self-discovery.
Characters to notice
- Henry Bohun
Arrives in Petrograd as a self-satisfied young poet, having published 'Discipline: Sonnets and Poems' and cultivated a superficial knowledge of Russian language and culture.
- Jerry Lawrence
Travels with Bohun to Petrograd; the two have decided they have nothing in common, and the narrator's sympathy is with Lawrence.
Key passages
“I really think I do understand Russia”
Bohun claims a deep comprehension of Russia despite his limited experience.
Reflects his naive confidence and cultural misunderstanding.
“Thank God we shan't have to talk to one another any longer. Whatever else may happen in this strange place that at least we're spared.”
Both Bohun and Lawrence are relieved to part ways after a week of uncomfortable travel together.
Highlights their mutual dissatisfaction and the contrast between them.