XXIII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Family and Legacy

  Sheridan's desperate attempt to keep Roscoe in the business highlights the conflict between family duty and personal breakdown.

• Individualism vs. Conformity

  Roscoe's refusal to conform to his father's work ethic represents a rebellion against the expected role.

• Gender Roles and Marriage

  Sibyl's hysterical monologue exposes the constraints of marriage and the limited agency of women in her social position.

Characters to notice

• Bibbs Sheridan

  Lives in a dreamlike detachment, absentmindedly wandering through family conflicts.

• Sibyl Sheridan

  Hysterical and under Dr. Gurney's care, she reveals her bitterness and the change in Bibbs.

• Roscoe Sheridan

  Broken by overwork and domestic trouble, he refuses his father's demand to return to business.

• James Sheridan

  Rages at Roscoe's decision, thumps his desk in a directors' meeting, and ultimately dismisses his son.

• Dr. Gurney

  Attends Sibyl, learns of Bibbs's change, and advises Roscoe to rest, incurring Sheridan's wrath.

Key passages

• “Bibbs continued to live in the shelter of his dream.”

  Bibbs remained wrapped in his own fantasies, oblivious to the chaos around him.

  Highlights Bibbs's emotional detachment from family turmoil.

• “These are good times and big times, and I won’t stand for any other kind o’ talk.”

  Sheridan insists that the economy is booming and refuses to hear any pessimistic views.

  Illustrates Sheridan's bullish confidence and authoritarian style.

• “I’m through.”

  Roscoe declares he is done with the family business.

  Marks Roscoe's definitive break from his father's expectations.