Summary

In “Prologue,” Oliver and Colbourne visit Oliver’s old room in the tower. When Colbourne asks Oliver what he and James were to each other, Oliver has trouble answering. He says that he admired James’ brilliance and guesses that James liked his naivety. Colbourne says, “I think he was enamored with you because you were so enamored with him” (334). The word “enamored” sticks out to Oliver, but he does not contradict Colbourne (334).

Oliver and his friends explore the impressive set of Lear in “Scene 1.” Alexander recently got out of the hospital. Oliver and his friends—all insomniacs—take turns checking in on him. Frederick turns on the stage lights. The mirrored floor of the set reflects a night sky, making Oliver remember the darkness of the lake where they found Richard. He feels sick.

Opening night of Lear goes well in “Scene 2.” Colin...