# Chapter XXXIII explained — The Turmoil

> Chapter companion for The Turmoil by Booth Tarkington.

## What happens

Bibbs, alone in his office, contemplates the industrial city's ugliness and the god of 'Bigness,' questioning the purpose of relentless toil and progress. He envisions a future beautiful city born from the present chaos. A phone call from Mary Vertrees, who witnessed his near-accident, rekindles their connection, and she appears at his door.

## Themes in this chapter

### Bigness and Industrialization

Bibbs personifies the city's relentless growth as the god 'Bigness,' questioning its purpose and the human cost of progress.

### Love and Sacrifice

Sheridan risks his life to save Bibbs from the trolley; Mary's concern and phone call reveal her deep care for Bibbs.

## Character check-ins

### Bibbs Sheridan

Reflects on industrialization and his father's worship of 'Bigness'; receives a phone call from Mary and is overjoyed.

### Mary Vertrees

Observes Bibbs's near-accident from the street, calls him to check on his safety, and ultimately appears at his door.

### James Sheridan

Brags about the city to a visitor; heroically saves Bibbs from a trolley car.

## Key lines

> Bigness was being served. But what for?

Bibbs questions the purpose of the city's relentless industrial expansion.

_Reflects Bibbs's existential doubt about industrialization._

> Ugly I am, but never forget that I am a god!

The spirit of industry acknowledges its ugliness but demands worship.

_Personification of industrialization as a deity._

> Yes, Bibbs—dear.

Mary affirms her affection for Bibbs, calling him 'dear.'

_Climactic moment of emotional reconciliation._

## Links

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