National Avenue · Chapter
II explained
Dan Oliphant graduates from university and spends time in New York, where he meets Lena McMillan through her brother George.
What happens
Dan Oliphant graduates from university and spends time in New York, where he meets Lena McMillan through her brother George. Despite the McMillans' reserved hospitality, Dan is captivated by Lena and receives an invitation to a charity ball, where they dance and share a flirtatious conversation.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this excerpt, the emotional and psychological peak occurs when Dan’s internal conflict—his desire to see Ma…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Social Class and Family
The contrast between the McMillans' reserved, Eastern hospitality and Dan's warm Midwestern family highlights class and regional differences.
- Ambition and Failure
Dan's near-failure to graduate due to his wild behavior contrasts with Harlan's academic success, reflecting themes of ambition and its pitfalls.
Characters to notice
- Dan Oliphant
Graduates from university and enjoys New York's social scene; becomes infatuated with Lena McMillan.
- Lena McMillan
Daughter of the McMillan family; Dan finds her pretty and later dances with her at a charity ball.
- George McMillan
Lena's brother and Dan's friend; introduces Dan to the McMillan family and brings him a ball invitation.
- Harlan Oliphant
Dan's brother, mentioned as having a different accent and being more reserved.
- Mrs. McMillan
Lena's mother, described as large, stony, and reserved during Dan's visit.
Key passages
“Last prof to hold out gave up after I talked to him all afternoon and said I could have diploma, if I would quit arguing.”
Dan persuaded his final professor to grant his degree by arguing until the professor relented.
Dan's graduation story illustrates his persuasive charm and near-failure.
“I like you!”
Lena tells Dan she likes him, surprising him after her initial indifference.
This moment marks the beginning of their romantic connection.
