Chapters 16-22 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 16

It is 1917. Toomey begins to make money from his writing and enjoys the success and notoriety that goes along with it. Toomey is refused again for military service. Toomey relates his career to the battles of the war.

Toomey's first play debuts. Toomey's father attends the play and enjoys the comedy. Toomey's mother is unable to attend but writes her son a letter. Toomey's mother is afraid that London is evil. No one has told Toomey's father about his sexual orientation. Hortense visits.

Chapter 17

Toomey continues to be successful. Val attempts to return and to get back into Toomey's good graces. Toomey seems to be disinterested.

It is suggested that Toomey turn his new play into a musical. Toomey thinks this is a good idea and begins to write lyrics for "Say it Cecil."

Toomey becomes involved with...