Chapter 83: Simon and Baz in the Aftermath
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Simon lies face‑down on his stomach, spreading his aching wings to relieve the pain. Baz sits beside him, quietly examining the injuries Simon sustained the previous day. Though the wounds are only cuts, Baz’s fingers brush the back of Simon’s neck. Simon breaks the silence by giving Baz permission: “You can be angry now.” In response, Baz pulls Simon’s hair—a gesture that could express frustration, affection, or both.
Key Events
- Simon lies on his stomach to let his injured wings spread out.
- Baz inspects the cuts on Simon’s back, confirming they are not serious.
- Baz touches the nape of Simon’s neck.
- Simon tells Baz he is allowed to be angry now.
- Baz pulls Simon’s hair as a reply.
Character Development
Simon Snow – Even in pain, Simon shows awareness of Baz’s suppressed emotions. By offering Baz the chance to express anger, Simon reveals a new willingness to confront conflict honestly. His position (lying vulnerable, wings spread) also highlights his trust in Baz.
Baz – Rather than speaking or storming off, Baz uses a small physical action—pulling Simon’s hair—to answer. This ambiguous gesture suggests he is still processing his feelings, caught between wanting to lash out and seeking closeness.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Physical Injury as Emotional Mirror – The cuts on Simon’s wings represent not only recent violence but also the deeper wounds that need attention.
- Touch Over Words – The chapter’s only dialogue is Simon’s; Baz responds with a touch (neck) and a tug (hair). Touch becomes the primary language of their tension and care.
- Anger and Permission – Simon’s invitation—“You can be angry now”—implies that Baz has been holding back, and that Simon is ready to face the consequences of whatever happened “yesterday.”
Why This Chapter Matters
This brief, intimate scene strips away the action of the previous day to focus on the emotional and physical aftermath. It reveals how Simon and Baz are learning to navigate vulnerability and unresolved anger. The chapter’s quiet power lies in its restraint: nothing is said about the fight, yet everything is communicated through gesture and silence.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Simon tell Baz “You can be angry now”?
Simon recognizes that Baz has been suppressing his anger, likely about the events of the previous day. By giving explicit permission, Simon invites Baz to express his feelings without fear of making things worse between them.
2. What does Baz’s action of pulling Simon’s hair suggest about his emotional state?
The pull is ambiguous—it could be a frustrated, aggressive impulse or an affectionate, familiar gesture. Baz’s refusal to use words (instead of yelling or leaving) shows he is still conflicted but unwilling to completely withdraw from Simon.
3. How does Simon’s physical position reinforce themes of vulnerability?
Lying on his stomach with his wings spread leaves Simon defenseless. He cannot see Baz’s face, yet he still offers Baz the chance to vent his anger. His posture demonstrates trust and a willingness to be exposed, emotionally as well as physically.