The Turmoil · Chapter
XI explained
Sheridan gives Herr Favre a tour of the city, extolling its industrial might while the visitor criticizes the smoke and grime.
What happens
Sheridan gives Herr Favre a tour of the city, extolling its industrial might while the visitor criticizes the smoke and grime. After the tour, Sheridan goes to a barbershop where the atmosphere is strangely subdued; he picks up an 'Extra' newspaper and learns of a fatal accident. Bibbs arrives to break the news that Jim has been killed.
Themes in this chapter
Bigness and Industrialization
Sheridan's pride in the city's industrial might is contrasted with Herr Favre's critique of the smoke and grime, highlighting the costs of industrial progress.
Urban Decay and Environment
Herr Favre's observations about the gray curtains, smoke-filled air, and ruined foliage underscore the environmental toll of urbanization.
Mortality and Health
The sudden news of Jim's death in an accident brings mortality to the forefront, shattering Sheridan's sense of security.
Characters to notice
- James Sheridan
Proudly shows Herr Favre the city and its industries, then learns of Jim's death in the barbershop.
- Herr Favre
A Bavarian businessman visiting for a conference; comments on the pervasive smoke and grayness of the city.
- Bibbs Sheridan
Appears at the barbershop to gently inform his father of Jim's death and escort him home.
Key passages
“No white lace window-curtains; all cray lace window-curtains.”
Herr Favre observes that the city's curtains are gray from smoke, not white.
Highlights the environmental impact of industrialization.
“Smoke! Smoke ef'rywhere. Smoke in your insites. Smoke in your lunks!”
Herr Favre complains that smoke permeates everything, even the lungs.
Emphasizes the health and aesthetic costs of urban industry.
“Extry! All about the horrable accident!”
Newsboys shout about a terrible accident, which turns out to be Jim's death.
Foreshadows the tragic news that Sheridan is about to learn.