Part 7: The Poet Dies, pp. 289-307 Summary

Chap. 1- The poet is a fragile creature, as the narrator refers to the fate of Pushkin, and other young poets. The same is true for Jaromil, who is going to a party.

Chap. 2- The manner of death can be related to the state of the dying person. Jaromil dreams of death by fire, like the burning of Giordano Bruno. Others die by drowning, or falling out a window.

Chap. 3- Jaromil is going to the party with a bad cold. He thinks of his brave imaginary alter ego, Xavier, and the sad fate of the redhead girl.

Chap. 4- The party is for artists of various sorts. Everyone tries to get attention, and Jaromil uses some sarcastic remarks to join in this.

Chap. 5- Maman is nervous because Jaromil is going...