# XIV explained — The Walls of Jericho

> Chapter companion for The Walls of Jericho by Rudolph Fisher.

## What happens

Shine and Linda take a walk along Riverside Drive, discussing the incident at the Manhattan Casino where Patmore made unwanted advances. Linda reveals that Patmore offered her twenty-five dollars, a degrading proposition. Their conversation deepens their connection, with Shine expressing his protective feelings and Linda beginning to trust him.

## Themes in this chapter

### Power and Control

Patmore's attempt to use money to control Linda highlights the power dynamics in their interaction.

### Identity and Self-Deception

Linda's initial reaction to being called 'baby' and her concern about what is 'common' reflect her internal conflict about her identity and social standing.

## Character check-ins

### Pat

Shine and Linda discuss the casino incident, with Shine wanting to confront Patmore. Linda reveals Patmore's offensive offer.

### Linda Young

Linda shares the details of Patmore's insulting proposition, showing her vulnerability and growing trust in Shine.

### Henry Patmore

Patmore is the subject of the conversation; his actions at the casino are recounted, revealing his predatory behavior.

## Key lines

> Don’t call me baby!” exploded Linda. “It sounds so⁠—common.”

Linda objects to the term 'baby', finding it vulgar.

_Highlights Linda's sensitivity to social class and propriety._

> He said⁠—I needn’t act so disappointed over losin’ twenty-five dollars⁠—that he was a judge, all right⁠—and⁠— Well⁠—he offered me twenty-five dollars.

Patmore insulted Linda by implying she was upset about losing prize money and then propositioned her with cash.

_Reveals the degrading nature of Patmore's advance and Linda's humiliation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_walls_of_jericho_se/chapters/xiv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_walls_of_jericho_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_walls_of_jericho_se/chapters