The Wonderful Visit · Chapter
XLVI: The Angel in Trouble (Continued) explained
Delia watches the Angel attempt to fly in the moonlight, but his wings fail him.
What happens
Delia watches the Angel attempt to fly in the moonlight, but his wings fail him. She goes to comfort him, and he expresses his despair at being unable to use his wings. Their intimate moment is interrupted by Mrs. Hinijer, who scolds Delia for being alone with him.
Themes in this chapter
The Fragility of Wonder
The Angel's failed flight and sobbing highlight the loss of his transcendent ability, underscoring the fragility of wonder in a harsh world.
The Universality of Suffering
The Angel's despair and tears show that even a celestial being can experience profound suffering and helplessness.
Characters to notice
- The Angel
Attempts to fly but fails, sobbing in despair; reveals his inability to use his wings to Delia.
- Mrs. Hinijer
Interrupts the Angel and Delia's private conversation, scolding Delia for being alone with him.
Key passages
“He began taking short runs, flapping his wings and leaping, going to and fro amidst the drifting patches of light and the shadows of the trees.”
The Angel tried to fly by running and jumping, moving back and forth in the shifting moonlight and shadows.
Depicts the Angel's desperate attempt to use his wings.
“My wings, said the Angel. I cannot use my wings.”
The Angel explained that his wings were no longer functional.
Reveals the core of the Angel's trouble.