Graduation Summary

Garp practices the craft of writing all through his high school years and is anxious for Helen's approval of his work, yet she is always reserved in her praise. Garp finds his artistic validation from an English teacher, Mr. Tinch, who encourages Garp to find his literary voice in spite of what others may or may not say.

The Steering School is still an all-boys school so Helen attends another school out of town. Because her father is the wrestling coach, if Helen had been a boy she would have received an exceptional education at Steering. Garp does not lack for female companionship while Helen is away and is particularly fond of Cushie, one of the Percy girls.

Helen is not able to come home for Garp's commencement, so on the night of his graduation, he and Jenny have a couple of beers...