An American Tragedy Chapter Summary & Analysis - Book 2, Chapter 6 Summary

Book 2, Chapter 6 Summary

Clyde's boarding house emphasizes the differences between his state and the status of his uncle's family, far removed from his lodging. Other employees who know that he's the boss's nephew treat Clyde partly with deference. However, because he is related, he's seen as part of the rich upper classes. The workers are envious and suspicious of him.

Clyde does not fit into the realm of the thick, uninteresting factory workers in the shrinking room, nor in the world of his socially, accepted, rich relatives. The chapter ends with Clyde thinking back on happier times in Kansas City. He rues the loss of Hortense Briggs, but recognizes her shallowness, knowing that she left Kansas City wearing a fur jacket with the cigar boy. Clyde understands that Hortense wouldn't approve of him now, because he is not well-paid and working a low-end job. However, Hortense would be impressed by his uncle's status.