The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August

Harry reflects on Vincent’s engagement to Jenny, speculating that it is a “final test” to ensure that Harry does not remember his former lives. He is disgusted with himself for his ability to maintain the pretense, feeling that it reflects his moral degradation.

Following Jenny’s engagement, Harry evades Vincent’s surveillance and travels to his childhood home in Berwick-upon-Tweed. The journey prompts him to reflect on his cruel biological father, Rory Hulne, and his quiet, steadfast adoptive father, Patrick August.

When Harry arrives, he discovers that his family home has been sold, but he gains access to the grounds by sharing stories with the new owner. He then finds Patrick’s cottage derelict and overgrown. Standing in the ruins, Harry imagines a conversation with Patrick, finally expressing the gratitude he was never able to give in life and affirming that Patrick was his real father.

By 1983, Harry works as Vincent’s personal assistant, observing the global chaos caused by the accelerated technology Vincent has unleashed. In 1985, Harry is diagnosed with multiple myeloma, the same disease that always kills him when he survives to old age, and refuses treatment.

Harry confronts Vincent with his decision in the latter’s apartment, revealing his secret by stating that he has died of this disease before.