Chapter 6 Summary

Chapter 6 opens with the auditor visiting Clamence in his sick-bed. Here the narrator reveals that he suffers from Malaria, a chronic illness the symptoms of which flare up at intervals. He contracted the illness, Clamence explains mysteriously, during his time as pope. Obviously he does not mean the Pope who presides over the Roman Catholic Church. He delays, however, in revealing what duties his occupation as "pope" entailed and how he gained this title.

Clamence flashes back to a subway platform in Paris. Waiting for the train, he spies a large shaggy dog which he attempts to call to him. The dog hesitates in its approach, wagging his tail and appearing friendly, but maintaining some distance. Without compunction, however, the dog falls into step behind a young German soldier who walks briskly through the station. Resenting the fickle affection of the animal and...