Book II, Part I - Passing Through Mexico: Chapters 40 - 43 Summary

Duluoz relays the tale of his mother's life and all the sacrifices that were made on his behalf. Duluoz revels in the time he spent in Florida with his mother and sister. The holidays bring back memories of happy times and create new ones. As Duluoz prepares to return to New York after the beginning of the year, Mrs. Duluoz reminds him to stay away from Irwin and others because the friendship will undoubtedly destroy him.

Duluoz returns to New York where it is apparent that Raphael has been sleeping with his Ruth. This seems to make little difference as Duluoz moves back into the same bedroom. The poets are photographed for Life Magazine.

Raphael returns to making strange acquaintances when he paints a mural...