Torch Song Trilogy Study Guide

Widows and Children First: Scene 2 Summary

Ed returns to the apartment and Arnold flies into a rage for Ed's leaving him alone to face Mrs. Beckoff, who is hurt and outraged over the news that Arnold plans to adopt David. Apparently Mrs. Beckoff, who has spent the afternoon with David, was under the impression that David's stay with Arnold is a temporary one. The news that David will probably be staying permanently prompts Mrs. Beckoff to declare Arnold's lifestyle as inappropriate for raising a child.

During the course of the fight between Arnold and his mother, Arnold reveals that Alan had been killed in the street by some young men who hate homosexuals. Arnold's grief was never validated by his mother and even Arnold's friends grew weary of his mourning. Arnold attempts to get his mother.....

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