Chapter 15 Summary

Richard's engine is throwing less oil. Shimoda tests him by asking how he can expect to impress the workaday world while running around irresponsibly as a gypsy pilot. Richard replies: 1) he does not exist to impress the world but to make himself happy, 2) everyone else is free to do whatever they want for a living, and 3) since "Responsible is Able to Respond," he answers only to himself - if he wants. There is nothing wrong with being irresponsible, but most people like to know why they are doing something. Realizing the answer is too long; Richard tries again, saying he allows both the world and himself to live as they choose. Shimoda smiles proudly, declaring this last statement the concise, quotable, guarded words truly messianic, and Richard savors watching his own mind work.

Pretending to be a kind, but friendless, person, Shimoda tests...