Summary

In Chapter 40, Nathaniel’s favorite poem is “The Raven.” Nathaniel comes in with a poem he wrote for Addie about how she gave him back his life. As he initiates sex for the first time, she knows that he always wanted sex even though he said it was not necessary. During sex, Addie recites in her head the poem he wrote for her.

Addie thinks about Nathaniel constantly during his class in Chapter 41, making it more difficult to pay attention. They have sex in the darkroom almost every day. Sometimes he barely even says anything to her beforehand. He has told her that he no longer has sex with his wife.

Lotus is announced as the winner of the poetry contest. Nathaniel tells Addie that Lotus made her submit her poem. Addie is overwhelmed about just how strong her feelings are...