When God Laughs · Chapter
A Wicked Woman explained
Loretta visits Santa Clara to escape Billy, who wants to marry her.
What happens
Loretta visits Santa Clara to escape Billy, who wants to marry her. She stays with the Hemingways, where Ned Bashford, a philosophical man, becomes enamored with her apparent innocence. Loretta confesses to Ned that she is 'wicked' because of her past with Billy, leading to a tense revelation.
Themes in this chapter
Morality and Guilt
Loretta's confession of being 'wicked' due to her past with Billy drives the chapter's tension and Ned's reaction.
Satiety and Desire
Ned Bashford's philosophical detachment contrasts with his growing desire for Loretta, and Loretta's own desires conflict with societal expectations.
Characters to notice
- Loretta
Visits Santa Clara to escape Billy; develops independence and attracts Ned Bashford; confesses her 'wickedness' regarding Billy.
- Ned Bashford
Philosophical man invited by Mrs. Hemingway; becomes infatuated with Loretta's apparent innocence; is shocked by her confession.
- Mrs. Hemingway
Hosts Loretta in Santa Clara; schemes to marry off Ned Bashford; writes a letter inviting him.
- Jack Hemingway
Husband of Mrs. Hemingway; amused by his wife's plans; fishes and observes the situation.
- Daisy
Loretta's sister; Loretta initially feels dependent on her but grows apart during the visit.
- Captain Kitt
Daisy's husband; wants Loretta to stay to help with household; arranges her visit to Santa Clara.
Key passages
“It was because she had broken with Billy that Loretta had come visiting to Santa Clara.”
Loretta visited Santa Clara because she ended her relationship with Billy.
Sets up the reason for Loretta's visit.
“He was superficial— out of profundity.”
He appeared shallow because of his deep understanding.
Describes Ned Bashford's philosophical stance.
“I am a wicked woman, a terribly wicked woman. No one knows how wicked I am—except Billy.”
Loretta claims she is morally corrupt, and only Billy knows the extent.
Key confession that shocks Ned.