A Confederacy of Dunces

Mr. Clyde informs Ignatius of a complaint from the Board of Health. He has been spotted lifting a cat out of the gutter in the warehouse district. Ignatius claims that cats are “notoriously sanitary” and claims that he feels unappreciated at Paradise Vendors (182). Clyde agrees to give him one more chance and wants to send Ignatius to the French Quarter. Reluctantly, Ignatius agrees.

When Ignatius arrives home, his mother falls to her knees and asks God why she must bear this “terrible cross” (185). Then she asks Ignatius whether he is a “communiss” (186). When he vehemently denies the accusation, she suggests that he needs help. A letter has arrived from Myrna, and Ignatius begins to read it. She criticizes his previous letter, brags about her new acquaintances, and again encourages Ignatius to have sex. He finishes the letter and throws it into the garbage, then argues with his mother until a neighbor tells them to be quiet.

Lana sits on a barstool watching Darlene’s dress rehearsal. She bickers with Jones, both threatening to call the police on each other. Darlene begins her clumsy dance with her cockatoo on her arm, which begins to undress her. Lana calls the act to a halt and gives Darlene advice on how to sell her striptease properly.