Chapter 15: Phlegmed Before a Live Audience Summary and Analysis

Natalie and Augusten come to =think of themselves as talented singers. They dream about stardom and frequently convince Dr. Finch's musically talented patients to accompany them on the piano. After many hours of practice, they decide that they need a live audience.

With the endorsement of Dr. Finch, they lie their way into a gig singing for the patients at Northampton State Hospital, a mental hospital where, while Dr. Finch worked their, the whole family used to live. During their one performance at the hospital, an old man spits on them and Natalie spits back. Such a reaction quickly ends their musical careers.

Augusten's continued dreams of fame show his desire to escape his current life. Such desires appear frequently in young adults. Often, they offer much aid through their strong...