# XI explained — The Turmoil

> Chapter companion for The Turmoil by Booth Tarkington.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_turmoil_se/chapters/xi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_turmoil_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_turmoil_se/chapters