The Song of the Lark · Chapter
XV explained
Thea Kronborg, now fifteen, has become a music teacher in Moonstone.
What happens
Thea Kronborg, now fifteen, has become a music teacher in Moonstone. She enjoys her newfound independence as a wage-earner, though she struggles with impatience toward her less dedicated pupils. After a confrontation with Mrs. Livery Johnson, Thea receives reassurance from Ray Kennedy during a buggy ride to the sand hills. She shares a birthday card from her former teacher, Wunsch, who has moved to Concord, Kansas. Ray, who secretly plans to propose to Thea when she turns seventeen, provides her with steady companionship and support.
Themes in this chapter
Artistic Ambition and Sacrifice
Thea's intense dedication to teaching and her frustration with less committed pupils highlight her drive for artistic excellence and the sacrifices she makes.
Community and Alienation
Thea feels alienated from her peers and the townspeople, who criticize her temper and independence, yet she finds solace in her relationship with Ray.
Characters to notice
- Thea Kronborg
Now fifteen, established as a music teacher in Moonstone; struggles with impatience toward pupils but values her independence.
- Ray Kennedy
Provides emotional support and reassurance to Thea; secretly plans to propose when she turns seventeen.
- Herr Wunsch
Sends Thea a birthday card from Concord, Kansas; his departure is still felt by Thea and Mrs. Kohler.
- Mrs. Livery Johnson
Confronts Thea about her temper with older pupils, demanding an apology for her daughter Grace.
- Mrs. Kohler
Mentioned as missing Wunsch; attends church to hear Thea sing.
Key passages
“By the time Thea's fifteenth birthday came round, she was established as a music teacher in Moonstone.”
When Thea turned fifteen, she had already become a music teacher in Moonstone.
Establishes Thea's early professional role and independence.
“He had the chivalry which is perhaps the proudest possession of his race.”
Ray possessed a chivalrous nature, which was his most admirable trait.
Highlights Ray's respectful and honorable behavior toward Thea.