The Wave of the Gods, Chapters 17, 18, 19, and 20 Summary

Three weeks pass and Julian has continued to visit the Manuel household. One afternoon, Don Manuel tells Julian that he has learned from the minister of the arts that Julian has not yet written the freedom day play which is scheduled for production in six weeks. Don Manuel cancels all chess games and visits to the house, until Julian completes the play.

As Julian and Sol take their last walk until after the play is completed, Julian shares his frustrations at simply writing when Cuba needs the strength of swords and strategy. Sol reminds Julian of his speech when he said that the sword is nothing without the value of the pen, because of the power to move people through words. Julian wishes he were as eloquent in his personal life...