What We Can Know

Thomas is a lecturer of English literature from 1990 to 2030 (“90-30” for short) at the University of the South Downs. Most students come to learn about recent pop culture but are surprised when they discover the relatability of the recent historical past. Those in Thomas’s seminar on Blundy and his peers are especially surprised by the higher quality of life during his time. One of their recurring discussion topics is the slow progress of English development over the past century, which requires them to study the abundance of cultural objects produced in this past period.

Thomas picks up his research by focusing on the Sheldrakes. His materials indicate that Mary’s assumptions about Graham’s feelings were right after all. They had passionate sex later that night. Over dinner, the party discussed the London Olympics, the Russian annexation of Crimea, and Julian Assange. The Gages stepped away to check in with the babysitter. Francis became nervous as the moment to read his poem approached, feeling the burden of what he believed was an important turning point in literary history.

Harry proposed a toast to Francis to introduce his new poem. Thomas notes that Harry was frequently unfaithful to Jane, though Jane took him back for their children’s sake.