Chapter 57

Summary

• Chapter 57 is presented from Eleanor's perspective as she attends the inauguration of her husband, Franklin, to a third term as President on January 20, 1941. This formal event is contrasted with the previous weekend's jovial family gathering at Hyde Park.
• Eleanor is battling inner turmoil. She feels torn between her happiness for their country and her concerns about the personal ramifications of Franklin's third term for both her and her husband.
• She does not confide in her friends about this conflict. She considers sharing these worries with Mary but decides that she cannot burden her with this information, especially since Mary has sacrificed so much, including her health, to see Franklin win the third term.
• Eleanor puts on a brave face for her family and the public during the inauguration. As the ceremony concludes, she happily notes a point in President Franklin's speech where he nods to her personal stance on socio-economic welfare, comparing the nation to a human body that needs to be "housed and fed and educated".
• She is disappointed that Mary, who is too ill to attend, is not there with her. Both Mary and Eleanor realize that they have much work ahead to fulfill their goals as the prospect of war looms over the nation.
• Eleanor appreciates the growing closeness between her and her only daughter, Anna, and speaks with her briefly about the success of the inauguration. She is also pleased with her youngest son, John, who strongly adapts her peace-leading ideologies.
• Tears well up in Eleanor's eyes as she thinks about a future war that might tear her family apart, but she quickly dismisses the thought and looks ahead for the nation's progress.
• Eleanor's tension is slightly alleviated when the integrated Virginia colored cavalry regiment passes in the parade. This accomplishment gives her hope for the continued fight for racial equality.
• She prepares herself mentally for the changes that are to come, including budget cuts to the New Deal programs. Yet, she is undeterred and remains committed to fighting for progress and equality alongside Mary.