Summary

Four figures walk towards a grave within a graveyard. Two of the figures are older, while the other two are quite young. The two older figures turn out to be Mariana and Ted, while the younger figures are their children. Ted leans a novel entitled "The Double Mint Man" against Marty's grave. Ted has become a successful writer of nine novels, some of which were turned into movies and television shows.

Analysis

As foreshadowed in Chapter 79, Ted, a loser, finally becomes successful. He also finally finishes his father's narrative, something that was suggested by Mariana much earlier in the novel. His writing of his father's partially fictional story led to Ted's success.Ted also succeeds by having a family with Mariana, who eventually loved him, and having a family.

Discussion Question 1

In what other ways is Ted not a loser?

Discussion Question 2

What would...