The Perfume of Eros · Chapter
V: Exit Fanny explained
Orr learns of Loftus's murder in Gramercy Park and visits Annandale, who is agitated and unable to remember his whereabouts.
What happens
Orr learns of Loftus's murder in Gramercy Park and visits Annandale, who is agitated and unable to remember his whereabouts. Fanny confronts Annandale, accusing him of the murder and vowing to testify against him in court.
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 Falling action.
- Setup
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Marie’s realization that the piano holds no secret—that her year of obsessive pursuit of artistic and emotiona…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Betrayal and Heartbreak
Fanny's confrontation with Annandale reveals deep betrayal and her determination to see him punished.
- Scandal and Reputation
The murder of Loftus and the potential involvement of Annandale threaten to create a public scandal.
Characters to notice
- Melanchthon Orr
Learns of Loftus's murder, visits Annandale, and witnesses Fanny's confrontation.
- Sylvia Waldron
Informs Orr of Fanny's plan to run off with Loftus and fears Annandale may be suspected.
- Arthur Annandale
Agitated and unable to remember his movements after the murder; confronted by Fanny.
- Fanny
Accuses Annandale of murder and vows to testify against him in court.
Key passages
“Murder! On the morrow, through the thick streets newsboys were shouting the word engagingly, as though it were something nice.”
The next day, newsboys excitedly shouted 'Murder!' through the crowded streets, as if it were a delightful event.
Highlights the sensationalism of crime in the media.
“I will swear to what you said.”
Fanny declares she will testify in court about Annandale's threat.
Shows Fanny's resolve to use Annandale's words against him.
