Summary

In Chapter IX, because Sidney was not returning to work, she stayed with her parents. The narrator did not mind giving up the guest room, as she could have “unlimited access to the office” (101). She slept and worked there, “aflame with ardor and inspiration” on her story (101). She had not felt this creative energy in years. She was careful to “distance the story from Vladimir” (102).

The narrator and John got into an argument when he asked if she would attend the first day of his hearing (103). He asked if she loved him, and she hesitated, reflecting on their relationship. A bird hit into the window, interrupting them. The humor and sadness of the moment made her want things to be different.

Teaching Women in American Literature frustrated the narrator. She disliked the way her students interacted with or refused to engage...