Summary

When Bea comes into Science class late, the Teacher notices she is wearing the same clothes as yesterday. Her hair “is uncombed” and her face is “unwashed” (46). The Teacher guesses it will “be a bad day” (46). Because Bea is not that late, the Teacher says nothing. However, she cannot help noticing the tardiness. Bea also has no books or supplies with her. She walks loudly and sits sloppily.

The Teacher takes the train home. She feels as if she is riding from one country into another. This is the structure of Chicago. She can see her condo from the platform, and the platform from her condo. She often “hopes to catch her husband” on the deck with another woman, although “This has never happened” (46). Usually her husband is grilling in ugly sandals.

While her husband grew up in the city, the Teacher grew...