Summary

In this section of the novel, the narrative interjects an unlabeled piece of writing about F.W. Bennett. Bennett is generally hostile towards workers and ruthlessly undercuts all efforts to unionize. He also associates with organized criminals to further his business interests. The writing acknowledges various charitable donations given by Bennett. The passage then considers the various advantages and disadvantages of capitalism, noting that it can often improve living standards for lower classes, but that political systems under capitalism generally act in service to the country’s wealthy business oligarchs. The narrative then shifts back to Joseph, who is working on an assembly line in the manufacturing plant. The work is grueling and repetitive. Joseph and Clara live in a small apartment, and Joseph finds that he and Clara are actually happy in their simple routines. They befriend the young married couple in the...