Humor and Absurdity

Where it surfaces

• Mr. Bickersdyke Walks Behind the Bowler's Arm

  Psmith's witty commentary and his father's frenetic behavior add comedic elements to the chapter.

• The New Era Begins

  Psmith's letter humorously critiques Bickersdyke's bridge and attire, and the landlady's deadpan, theatrical manner adds a comic tone to Mike's lodging search.

• The Other Man

  Psmith's elaborate, mock-serious introduction to Mr. Rossiter, complete with invented family history and grandiose promises of work, injects absurdist comedy into the otherwise dreary office setting.

• The Haunting of Mr. Bickersdyke

  The chapter is rich in comedic irony, from Psmith's exaggerated politeness to Bickersdyke's frustrated reactions and the bridge revoke incident.

• X: Mr. Bickersdyke Addresses His Constituents

  Psmith's absurd question about burning boats to strengthen the Navy and the audience's chaotic behavior inject humor into the political setting.

• Misunderstood

  The chapter is dominated by Psmith's comedic retelling of the meeting chaos, including physical comedy and ironic misunderstandings.

• In a Nutshell

  Psmith's deadpan delivery of the Agesilaus and the pterodactyl story, along with his mock-serious tone, highlights the absurdity of the confrontation.

• Mr. Waller Appears in a New Light

  Psmith's exaggerated complaints about Bristow's waistcoat and his melodramatic lamentations over Mike's transfer provide comic relief.

• Stirring Times on the Common

  The absurdity of the meeting—with Prebble's unintelligible speech and Waller's hopping—is played for comic effect.

• Further Developments

  Psmith's witty commentary and the farcical chase scene highlight the absurdity of the situation.

• Sunday Supper

  The chapter's comedy arises from Mike's disastrous attempts to navigate the supper, Edward's relentless quiz questions, and the lovers' quarrel over Women's Suffrage.

• Psmith Makes a Discovery

  The chapter's comedy arises from Mike's suffering during Prebble's lecture, Psmith's deadpan commentary, and the absurdity of using old speeches as political leverage.

• And Takes Steps

  The setting of the Turkish Baths and Psmith's self-satisfied admiration of his own appearance in towels injects a comedic tone into the serious situation.

• Mr. Bickersdyke Makes a Concession

  The absurdity of Psmith's calm blackmail in a Turkish bath, with Bickersdyke's futile attempts to escape, drives the chapter's comedy.

• Breaking the News

  Psmith's witty and exaggerated explanations to Mr. Gregory and Mr. Bickersdyke underscore the chapter's comedic tone.

• XXVIII: Psmith Arranges His Future

  Psmith's theatrical escape from the bank and his witty commentary on commerce and Bickersdyke add a humorous tone.

• XXX: The Last Sad Farewells

  Psmith's exaggerated sympathy, the brandy prop, and his mock-serious tone create a comedic contrast to the serious act of resignation.