55 pages • 1 hour read
There Are No Saints
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Chapters 1-8Chapter Summaries & Analyses
Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, sexual violence, graphic violence, child abuse, emotional abuse, self-harm, substance use, and sexual content.
Chapter 1 Summary: “Cole Blackwell”
Cole Blackwell, a prominent sculptor, identifies a recent Sutro Baths murder as the work of his rival, Alastor Shaw, an artist known for violent themes. Cole then attends an art showcase, where curator Jack Brisk spills wine on an unknown woman’s dress, which she transforms into art. Cole is impressed by the young woman’s ingenuity, and Shaw mistakes his interest in her as sexual attraction. The event organizer, Betsy Voss, announces Shaw as the winner, and critic Carl Danvers publishes a harsh review of Cole’s work.
Enraged, Cole stalks Danvers, lures him to his studio, and murders him with a garrote. He incorporates the victim’s bones into a sculpture titled Fragile Ego, which sells for $750,000. Shaw approaches Cole at the event, recognizing the materials he used and expressing admiration. In response to Shaw’s dig at his previous work, Cole taunts him about lacking discipline, intensifying their rivalry.
Chapter 2 Summary: “Mara Eldritch”
Mara Eldritch, a struggling artist, wakes up to the news that she will lose her studio space, which she sublets from Joanna, one of her many roommates. She juggles multiple jobs, including working at the Sweet Maple café and walking dogs, before rushing to the Oasis gallery show, where she is captivated by Cole’s Fragile Ego sculpture.
