Chapter 25, A Little Curling Whisper: Why? Summary

Patrick feels sorry for the landlady, Louise, whose son, Shaunie, was killed by a car in 1961. One day while Bert is away at work, a sobbing Louise confides in Patrick, telling him that Ginger, Louise's husband, had abandoned her. Patrick, with Louise's consent, dresses like Shaunie and sits on her leg, calling her 'Mammy.' Bert catches Patrick sitting on Louise's lap, sucking her nipple. When given a choice, Patrick decides to become Louise's lover. Soon thereafter, Bert moves out of the apartment complex and Patrick never sees him again.

Chapter 25, A Little Curling Whisper: Why? Analysis

Patrick's second serious lover bears an uncanny resemblance to his first. Much like Mr. Teat, Louise is looking for someone whom she can support. Patrick is looking for a mother. Patrick goes as far as to...