# XVI explained — The Turmoil

> Chapter companion for The Turmoil by Booth Tarkington.

## What happens

After a church concert, Bibbs and Mary walk home discussing the meaning of music and its power to evoke courage and personal reflection. Mary invites Bibbs to hear her play piano that evening, as her piano is being sent away the next day. Bibbs, deeply moved, spends the night writing in his notebook about music, beauty, and his growing feelings for Mary.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Bibbs's growing affection for Mary is evident in his poetic reflections and his fear of overstepping, while Mary's kindness to a 'sick tramp' suggests selfless generosity.

### Individualism vs. Conformity

Bibbs critiques the drudgery and materialism of urban life, contrasting it with the deeper meaning found in music and personal connection.

## Character check-ins

### Bibbs Sheridan

Reflects on music and life with Mary, accepts her invitation to hear her play, and writes introspective notes afterward.

### Mary Vertrees

Shares her interpretation of Handel's music as courage, invites Bibbs to hear her play, and mentions her piano is being sent away.

## Key lines

> Almost any music of Handel’s always means one thing above all others to me: courage!

Mary says that Handel's music primarily inspires courage in her.

_Mary expresses her personal interpretation of the concert._

> The music meant to me⁠—it meant the kindness of⁠—of you.

Bibbs confesses that the music reminded him of Mary's kindness.

_Bibbs reveals his emotional response to the music and her._

> I’m sending it away tomorrow.

Mary says her piano will be removed the next day.

_Mary hints at a change in her circumstances._

## Links

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