69 pages 2 hours read

F. Scott Fitzgerald

Tender Is the Night

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1934

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Book 2, Chapters 17-23Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Book 2, Chapter 17 Summary

In a café in Munich, Dick runs across Tommy Barban. After they catch up and Dick hears about their elaborate escape from Communist Russia, Tommy tells Dick the news that Abe North is dead—he was beaten to death in a speakeasy (an illegal bar). Dick is shocked.

Later in his hotel room, Dick witnesses a procession of German military men, reminiscent of 1914, marching down the street to lay laurels on the tombs of the dead.

Book 2, Chapter 18 Summary

Continuing his vacation alone in Germany, Dick contemplates his relationship with Nicole, missing the good sides of her. His thoughts turn from Nicole to himself, since it was for his own sake that he left on this trip anyway. Dick considers that he has lost himself.

Dick considers starting an affair with a woman at the hotel where he is staying. After exchanging glances, he feels ashamed and goes up to his room to be alone. There, he reads a telegram that his father has died. He paces a long time, reflecting on his upbringing and the love he has for his father. Then, he books a ticket to go to America.