Chapter 40-Epilog Summary

In Chapter 40, Richard is lying awake in the middle of the night and realizes that Dickie can remember birth. He goes into his mind to find Dickie and locates him launching a glider from a rock ledge. He realizes he can get information from Dickie on the changes from before birth to after. Dickie agrees to share the memory.

Richard remembers his birth in Chapter 41. He re-experiences the powerlessness and helplessness associated with being a baby. He remembers how his mom took care of him and comforted him. As he comes into existence, he remembers the importance of rules and limitations. He remembers the hardships and joys of becoming a physical being.

In Chapter 42, Richard and Dickie discuss the pre-birth experience. Richard comes to the startling realization that all along, Dickie knew everything. The appearances of strangers in Richard's life, from...