A Voyage to Arcturus · Chapters

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Chapter companions for A Voyage to Arcturus by David Lindsay.

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Chapter 1
I: The Séance
At a séance hosted by Montague Faull at Prolands in Hampstead, the medium Backhouse attempts a materialization. The evening is disrupted by a mysterious crash, the late arrival of Maskull and Nightspore, and the eventual appearance of a phantom youth. A brash intruder, Krag, bursts in and interacts roughly with the apparition.
Chapter 2
II: In the Street
After the séance, Maskull, Krag, and Nightspore gather outside. Krag reveals that Tormance is the inhabited planet of Arcturus and proposes a journey there. Maskull is skeptical but intrigued after viewing Arcturus through a heavy lens that shows its double sun and a satellite. Nightspore reluctantly agrees to accompany them. Krag invites them to Starkness Observatory, where the voyage will begin, and departs, leaving Maskull and Nightspore to travel north.
Chapter 3
III: Starkness
Maskull and Nightspore arrive at the deserted Starkness Observatory. After breaking in, they discover a library with a cupboard containing bottles labeled 'Solar Back Rays' and 'Arcturian Back Rays.' One bottle accidentally activates and vanishes, leading to a discussion about Krag's mysterious intentions and the nature of the rays.
Chapter 4
IV: The Voice
Maskull and Nightspore prepare for their journey to Tormance. After a meager meal, they walk to the Gap of Sorgie, where Maskull hears mysterious drum taps. Returning to the tower, Maskull ascends alone, experiences crushing weight, and views Arcturus through a lens. A disembodied voice warns him that he is merely an instrument to be used and broken, and that Nightspore will return after his death.
Chapter 5
The Night of Departure
Maskull, Nightspore, and Krag prepare to depart Earth for Tormance. After a tense wait in the dark house, Krag arrives and performs a ritualistic wounding on both Maskull and Nightspore, which enables them to climb the tower stairs. They ascend to the rooftop, strip, drink a farewell toast, and board a crystal torpedo powered by Arcturian back rays. As the vessel launches, Maskull falls into a deep sleep, while Nightspore remains watchful and Krag pilots the craft.

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I: The Séance

II: In the Street

III: Starkness

IV: The Voice

The Night of Departure