Chapter 15

Summary

• Sam finds her parents making paper logs from shredded newspaper to save the planet, after watching a YouTube video.
• Her parents' house is in disarray with clutter and unkempt surfaces, reflecting a decline in their ability to maintain it.
• Sam is frustrated by her cleaning responsibilities at her parents' home; they refuse a cleaner due to socialist beliefs but rely on her.
• Her mother criticizes Sam for not being supportive enough of her husband Phil, who is out of work and feeling emasculated.
• Merryn, Sam’s mother, suggests that since male pride can be bruised by unemployment, Sam might have to boost Phil’s esteem.
• Merryn recounts an embarrassing incident involving Sam’s father and erectile dysfunction medication as an example of supporting a spouse.
• Despite a noticeable deterioration in Sam and Phil’s relationship, she considers her mother’s advice to be more supportive.
• Sam makes an effort to reconnect with Phil by cooking his favorite dinner and initiating sex, but Phil is not responsive.
• In her professional life, Sam’s colleagues avoid her and she feels pressured by her boss, intensifying her isolation.
• Joel, a coworker, reaches out to Sam during lunch, but she is too overwhelmed to discuss her problems and asks to be alone.
• Joel’s concern and closeness stir a mixture of feelings in Sam, highlighting her loneliness and yearning for connection.
• Struggling with personal and professional challenges, Sam finds little solace, both at home and work.