Summary

In the 19th section titled “2014, Hospital (near Tel Aviv),” people are gathered around the General’s bed. There are nurses, doctors, and the General’s family. His sons resemble him in size; they look bulldozer-like. Ruthi approaches the room but does not cross the “threshold” before one of the nurses takes her arm and pulls her back into the hall. The nurse explains what has happened. The General’s body functionality is slowly shutting down. Many of his organs have gone into failure.

Suddenly, one of the doctors leaves the General’s room. The family looks out into the hall as he exits, and they spot Ruthi to whom they give their immediate attention. Englander writes, “From their manner, it would seem to any observer that Ruthi is also family” (109). She deserves their attention, as the long-time caregiver...