Summary

After the "continual assault of cameras" (386) dies down in George's life, he interviews for a teaching position at a community college. His life up to that point was quite isolated, spending "whole days up in his room staring out at the Sound" (386). He appears quite overqualified for the position, and explains he left Saginaw after his wife died, but does not delve into the details. He is given the job on the spot.

George's parents have become worn down through dealing with the aftermath of Catherine's death. His mother looks after Franny, though she "had the patience of a mosquito" (387). She treats George with suspicion, as do most people in his community, such as "the checker in the market...she avoids his eyes" (388). George sinks deeper into his own mediocrity.

After George and Franny leave the Hale's house...