Chapter 2 Summary

Arturo remembers when he was twenty years old thinking he had lots of time to write a book, so he should get out and experience life. However, he has never been with a woman and therefore, his writing is not as inspired as he wants it to be. He remembers trying to be with a prostitute but being blocked by thoughts of the Blessed Virgin and adultery. He imagines being with a woman who will not frighten him.

As he walks along Bunker Hill, he commiserates with himself about being poor, being no good at writing, having dubious talent, and being a coward, traitor and liar. He admits he is claustrophobic, afraid of heights, blood, earthquakes, heart trouble, death and fear itself, but is otherwise quite fearless. Pretending to be wealthy, Arturo goes to a burlesque show but is disgusted. Seeing himself as...