Summary

In Chapter 8, "Spring 1991, Fifth Form," Crawford broke her hand while skiing on spring break. Years later, her therapist suggested she might have done it on purpose. Just beforehand, she had been telling her instructor about the independent study project she planned to do on "the relationship between biochemical depression and the creative genius" (222).

Back at school, because Crawford's injury kept her from participating in her usual sports, she started running. Her runs let her see how insignificant the school was. Crawford then describes the power structure at SPS, and each of the vice rectors: Bill Matthews, John Buxton, and Cliff Gillespie.

One night after a run, a classmate invited Crawford to attend a Vespers service with her. Ms. Radley led the service. Afterwards, Crawford felt comforted. She continued attending each week. Meanwhile, she performed research for her independent study. She asked Ms. Radley...