The Dinner

The next course arrives and the floor manager—once again—gives the diners a lengthy explanation of their choices. Paul recognizes his brother’s hunger and asks the floor manager questions about the food, forcing Serge to wait a little longer. Babette and Claire have not returned. When Paul asks yet another question, Serge’s face “radiated impatience” (55). As soon as the floor manager leaves, Serge begins to eat. Paul goes to find Babette and Claire.

Paul first checks the women’s bathroom but they are not inside. Paul searches outside and watches through the window as Serge finishes his meal. The bearded man and his daughter give Serge a nod of appreciation as they exit; Serge had been the “very picture of courtesy” (56) when the man had asked for the photograph. Serge had posed with the young girl and Paul had noticed the tell-tale (almost imperceptible) signs of irritation on his brother’s face. In that moment, Paul had felt a modicum of pity for his brother, who is having his private life interrupted by his public persona. Paul even imagined that he might help Serge respond violently, if it came to that. Paul is constantly surprised by the manner in which his lumpen, boorish brother can transform into a charismatic politician when required.