Poetry · Chapter
P. L. Deutsch explained
A brief, humorous character sketch of P.
What happens
A brief, humorous character sketch of P. L. Deutsch, an assistant secretary at Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. in Chicago, focusing on his restrained and profane reactions to different golfing mishaps.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because the speaker confronts the painful realization that his child’s lov…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Humor and Satire
The chapter uses playful exaggeration and contrasting reactions to golfing situations for comedic effect.
- Work and Profession
P. L. Deutsch is identified by his professional role as assistant secretary at a company.
Characters to notice
- Unknown Narrator
The narrator observes and describes P. L. Deutsch's golfing reactions.
Key passages
“When he dubs with his brassey, P. L. Merely utters a placid “Well! Well!” An unprofane “Bli me!” Is all for a stymie, But when it’s a slice he says, “&%$#.””
When P. L. hits a poor shot with his brassie, he calmly says 'Well! Well!' For a stymie, he mildly exclaims 'Bli me!' But when he slices the ball, he swears profusely.
Highlights the contrast between P. L.'s mild reactions to some golf errors and his strong reaction to a slice.
