Chapters 16 and 17 Summary

In chapter sixteen, Jayber goes along with changing times and buys himself a car, which he uses primarily to drive to nearby Hargrave. Five years later he overhauls the engine, always taking meticulous care of it. He goes to Hargrave for Violet Greatlow to cut his hair. Violet, who chews caraway seeds when he's been drinking, has a great tale of being locked in jail after cutting the hair of a prisoner.

Jayber admits he got the car because he is lonely and would like female companionship with women who see him as something other than the town barber. He has a few dates now and then, but finally meets Clydie at the Rosebud Cafe. A courageous and uncomplaining woman, Clydie cares for her elderly mother and aunt. Jayber comes to like and enjoy Clydie's company very much, but they keep...