Angels in America Chapter Summary & Analysis - Part 2: Act 1, Scene 2 Summary

Part 2: Act 1, Scene 2 Summary

Louis and Joe, on the same night as the end of part 1, are at Louis's new apartment in Alphabetland. The flat is dirty and bare of furniture. Louis says it is the first place the Jewish immigrants settled when they arrived in the country. Louis begins to undress Joe, who is nervous and a little reluctant. Joe is worried about the possibility of Louis having caught AIDS from Prior. Louis says they can use protection.

Joe starts for the door, as if he has had second thoughts. Louis says he really should take off his wedding ring when he is cruising for men.

Joe hugs Louis. Louis asks which brand of cologne he is wearing. He jokes that Joe's brand is very heterosexual, but it is obvious that he is very attracted to Joe. He explains to Joe that smell is a powerful sense, very much involved in sexual...
(read more)