Chapters 16-20 Summary and Analysis

In Chapter 16, which begins Part Three, Beck remembered the early years of his marriage. He wasn't completely happy with his relationship with his wife and ran away from the lack of connection by diverting himself and trying different challenges. He had a tendency to get carried away with his new interests. When he decided to learn how to sail, he took correspondence courses and went on bareboat excursions. Obsessed with the next step, he earned a variety of licenses and certificates. Professionally, Beck rose to the top. In 1982, he became president of the 1,200-person medical staff at Medical City. He was only thirty-five years old. Beck felt that he contributed to the household by earning enough to keep the family comfortable. It didn't occur to him that money wasn't enough, and that they actually needed him around. The presidency...