Part 1, Chapter 11 Summary

In early April, Michael and Hanna take a bicycle tour through the countryside. In preparation for the tour, Michael saves money and then sells his stamp collection at a huge loss. Hanna insists that Michael plan the entire trip. Then, on the trip, she makes him responsible for navigation, camping, hotel arrangements, and the other minutia of travel. Michael will always remember the way Hanna looked biking, the way her skirts flowed behind her in the wind. On their vacation they bike, sometimes camp, and have sex. Michael enjoys the experience of being in nominal control of things and becomes more sexually assertive.

One morning in a hotel, Michael arises early and goes out to fetch breakfast, while Hanna sleeps. He leaves a note on the nightstand in case she awakens. When he returns, he finds Hanna immensely distraught and agitated...