AtDDtA1: Scarsdale Vibe

[Paul Nightingale]

Vibe is introduced in a brief passage before the section break. The
transition from the scene at the restaurant adopts Ray's pov (30-31) and
marks a movement away from the Chums, not just at the restaurant, in a
single scene, but within the narrative generally. The world of the Chums,
defined by the rules that only apply aboard the Inconvenience, gives way to
the world of modern capitalism. As I noted previously, the inclusion in this
passage of the word "evil" (in connection with Vibe as a representative
figure, both celebrated and anonymous) does appear significant.

What is striking about the Vibe passage is the matter-of-fact way it is
narrated, a description of timing and organisation. The emphasis is on his
status ("a widely celebrated mogul") and the deferential role of those
surrounding him: "A sealed motor conveyance awaited him, and he was
translated as if by supernatural agency to the majestic establishment
defined by State, Monroe and Wabash." Is the arrival of the woman who
harangues him unexpected? If she has evaded the protective shield
surrounding him, does she represent a breakdown in security?

Vibe's organisation is an effective machine; if anything, the tone of the
passage recalls the earlier description of the airship's descent over the
Stockyards (10). The writing is different, but both passages describe
rationalisation as a feature of modern capitalism; and both passages include
depictions of violence that stand out in the novel's writing thus far.

The death of the cattle is predictable; they have been caught up in a
killing machine. The appearance of the woman before Vibe is not, in that
sense, predictable; yet the way in which he deals with her indicates that
such a moment has been scripted. Hence, his stick represents wealth and
power, "a gold and silver sphere chased so as to represent an accurate and
detailed globe of the world" (the world in his hand); but also contains the
means by which he dismisses the woman's complaint. He nods, ("[c]almly") and
then leaves a message for "the house physician" (state retribution in the
form of arrest and trial not being likely).