Chapter 17 Summary

The city of New Orleans is described in considerable detail, including its broad history, geography, flavor and culture. Particular attention is given to Mardi Gras and the role it plays in city politics. Several clubs of the social elite are enumerated and described. One such club, The Boston Club, is patronized by nearly all New Orleans bank presidents and also by LeRoy Percy. Members of the Boston Club, by virtue of the social status and financial power, will play a leading role in the way that New Orleans deals with the coming floodwaters. One club member, James Pierce Butler, Jr., is at the center of New Orleans money, society and power, and he will play a dominant part in the unfolding drama.

Chapter 17 Analysis

Chapter 17 introduces Part Four - The Club, the fourth of nine named sections of the text. Chapter 17 provides some...