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The Walls of Jericho · Chapter

XIV explained

Shine and Linda take a walk along Riverside Drive, discussing the incident at the Manhattan Casino where Patmore made unwanted advances.

What happens

Shine and Linda take a walk along Riverside Drive, discussing the incident at the Manhattan Casino where Patmore made unwanted advances. Linda reveals that Patmore offered her twenty-five dollars, a degrading proposition. Their conversation deepens their connection, with Shine expressing his protective feelings and Linda beginning to trust him.

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 Rising action.

SetupEscalationAftermathClimax
  • Setup
  • Escalation
  • Breaking point
  • Aftermath
  • Closing

This is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak of the protagonist’s interna…

Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.

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Themes in this chapter

  • Power and Control

    Patmore's attempt to use money to control Linda highlights the power dynamics in their interaction.

  • Identity and Self-Deception

    Linda's initial reaction to being called 'baby' and her concern about what is 'common' reflect her internal conflict about her identity and social standing.

Characters to notice

  • Pat

    Shine and Linda discuss the casino incident, with Shine wanting to confront Patmore. Linda reveals Patmore's offensive offer.

  • Linda Young

    Linda shares the details of Patmore's insulting proposition, showing her vulnerability and growing trust in Shine.

  • Henry Patmore

    Patmore is the subject of the conversation; his actions at the casino are recounted, revealing his predatory behavior.

Key passages

  • “Don’t call me baby!” exploded Linda. “It sounds so⁠—common.””

    Linda objects to the term 'baby', finding it vulgar.

    Highlights Linda's sensitivity to social class and propriety.

  • “He said⁠—I needn’t act so disappointed over losin’ twenty-five dollars⁠—that he was a judge, all right⁠—and⁠— Well⁠—he offered me twenty-five dollars.”

    Patmore insulted Linda by implying she was upset about losing prize money and then propositioned her with cash.

    Reveals the degrading nature of Patmore's advance and Linda's humiliation.

The Walls of Jericho — XIV Explained