Act 2 Summary

The act opens to the sound of a typewriter, indicating that Philip has resumed his writing. Paris's friend Hattie, who has come home from school with him, is unnerved to hear that Philip has returned. He has always scared her, plus there are rumors in town of his crazy emotional state. Hattie's fears get the best of her and she runs from the house when Philip comes into the room to speak to Paris.

The conversation between father and son is stilted as they struggle to get reacquainted. Paris doesn't have fond memories of his father lately because Philip has been away. In addition, while Philip was gone, he either forgot Paris's birthday or sent inappropriate gifts. Philip gives Paris a hand-carved chess set to try to make up for some of the neglect. He also apologizes for not following through on his...