Summary

Linda is determining how best to dump Henrik. She feels vaguely bad about the situation , but rationalizes her decision by revealing that Henrik has been acting strangely lately. For example, he came to her room one night to tell her he heard voices in the bathroom. Linda begins avoiding Henrik, but instead of becoming angry he becomes understanding and nice. Thus, to completely end the relationship Linda contrives a plan to tell Henrik she had an abortion, hoping that such a revelation will push her beyond Henrik's love. Linda mocks a face invoice, invents a time and place for the abortion. When Linda tells Henrik he simply turns away and becomes silent. He does not speak to Linda again. Linda is shocked as she expected a violent reaction and realizes she has " only her lie to live with"(338).

Analysis

This flashback narration is extremely...