celebrity-and-privacy

This chapter centers on a moment before the collapse of civilization, where Arthur Leander, a famous actor, offers refuge to Miranda, a bruised young woman escaping an abusive situation. The narrative then traces Arthur's life journey from his isolated childhood on Delano Island through his struggles and successes in acting, highlighting his complex relationship with place and identity. The chapter juxtaposes personal histories against the impending societal collapse, emphasizing themes of escape, belonging, and the fragility of human connections.

In this chapter, Miranda returns to Toronto shortly before the collapse of commercial air travel and reconnects with her ex-husband Arthur, who is starring in King Lear and dealing with his father's recent death. Their meeting is marked by reflections on their shared past, the passage of time, and Arthur's anxiety about a forthcoming unauthorized book revealing personal letters. The chapter explores the complexities of their relationship and the ways their lives have diverged and changed over the years.