The Autobiography of Mark Twain · Chapter
Interval of Two Years explained
In this dictation from January 9, 1906, Mark Twain reflects on the passage of two years and the events that have transpired, with Mr.
What happens
In this dictation from January 9, 1906, Mark Twain reflects on the passage of two years and the events that have transpired, with Mr. Paine and Miss Hobby present as stenographer.
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 it marks the emotional and psychological peak of Twain's moral out…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Memory and Autobiography
Twain is engaged in the act of dictating his life story, reflecting on memory and the passage of time.
Characters to notice
- Mark Twain
Dictating his autobiography, reflecting on the interval of two years.
- F. G. Whitmore
Present as Mr. Paine during the dictation.
- Clara Clemens
Mentioned as Miss Hobby, the stenographer.
Key passages
“Interval of Two Years”
A period of two years has passed since the previous dictation.
Twain marks the passage of time in his autobiographical work.
