Chapter 8 and Chapter 9 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 8: After spending some time in Chicago taking acting classes, Barrowman transferred from the University of Iowa and headed west to the University of San Diego, where he was much happier because he was able to study true theater instead of opera. He paid his dues and worked his way up the ladder in the drama department. Whatever he lacked in knowledge, he made up for in confidence. His presence earned him the petty professional jealousy of another leading-man type, whom Barrowman identifies with the colorful Peter Prick.

Marilyn Rising, Barrowman's best friend from Opryland, followed Barrowman to San Diego. They were often cast as the male and female romantic leads in shows. They became boyfriend and girlfriend briefly, but the relationship only confirmed for Barrowman that he was only gay and not bisexual.

Barrowman next relates...