Any Way the Wind Blows Chapter 88 Summary and Analysis
⚠️ 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
The chapter opens from Baz’s perspective as he watches Simon collapse in Lady Salisbury’s arms, sobbing without tears. Lady Ruth comforts him, calling him “my child,” and Baz notes that it seems undeniable—Simon belongs with the Salisburys. Baz touches Simon’s back and says, “It’s all right, love,” but Simon’s wings prevent him from getting closer. Simon keeps apologizing into Lady Ruth’s shoulder; she is crying too. Only Jamie Salisbury is smiling, standing at Simon’s other side. Jamie exclaims that Simon is their family, that they’ve been looking for him for years and are “well chuffed” to have found him. Simon looks confused, as if Jamie is speaking a foreign language. Baz observes that the more he looks at Jamie, Lady Ruth, and the photos of Lucy, the more Simon seems to belong among them. Lady Ruth confirms, “We’re so happy to have found you.” Simon shakes his head, asking, “But what if… what if it isn’t true?” At that moment, a cold draught whips around them—though the window is closed and it’s June—and Lucy’s candle flames up one last time, then fizzles. The group falls silent, recognizing this as better than any spell or DNA test. After a moment, Lady Ruth pulls away, takes Simon’s hand (the one not holding the sword), and says, “Come downstairs, child. There’s cake.”
Key Events
- Simon breaks down in Lady Salisbury’s arms, sobbing without tears.
- Baz comforts Simon, touching his back, but Simon’s wings keep him at a distance.
- Jamie Salisbury declares that Simon is their family and that they are thrilled to have found him.
- Simon expresses doubt about the truth of the revelation.
- Lucy’s candle flares up and then fizzles, providing a magical, undeniable confirmation.
- Lady Ruth invites Simon downstairs for cake, symbolizing acceptance and family.
Character Development
- Simon Snow: This is a moment of intense vulnerability. He sobs without tears, apologizes repeatedly, and cannot immediately embrace the news of his family. His wings, a part of his magical identity, physically prevent Baz from getting close, underscoring his isolation even in this emotional scene.
- Baz Pitch: Remains a supportive, loving presence. He calls Simon “love” and touches his back, but respects the space Simon’s wings create. He observes the scene with a growing sense of recognition, seeing how Simon physically and emotionally fits with the Salisburys.
- Lady Salisbury (Ruth): Shows immediate maternal care. She holds Simon, cries with him, and uses the term “my child.” Her words “We’re so happy to have found you” reinforce that Simon is not just a lost relative but a long-sought member of the family.
- Jamie Salisbury: Enthusiastic and direct. He tries to break through Simon’s shock with joy and affirmation, clapping him on the shoulder. His phrasing “well chuffed” brings a lighter tone to the heavy moment.
- Lucy Salisbury (deceased): Though not present, her magic lingers. The candle’s final flare acts as a testament to her love and a supernatural seal on the family connection.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Family and Identity: The chapter centers on the moment Simon’s true lineage is revealed. The Salisbury family’s immediate embrace contrasts with Simon’s internal conflict; he struggles to accept that he belongs, even when physical and magical evidence points to it.
- Magic as Truth: The cold draught and Lucy’s candle provide a form of proof that transcends spells or science. The supernatural sign is accepted by everyone without debate, reinforcing the idea that magic can reveal profound truths.
- Physical Barriers: Simon’s wings, which separate him from Baz, symbolize his emotional distance and the barriers his identity has created. The wings are both a part of him and an obstacle to intimacy.
- Food as Comfort: Lady Ruth’s offer of cake is a simple, human gesture that grounds the extraordinary revelation. Cake represents home, family, and normalcy after a moment of intense emotion.
Why This Chapter Matters
Chapter 88 delivers the long-awaited confirmation that Simon’s family is the Salisbury family. The revelation is not just emotional but magical, as Lucy’s candle provides a sign that silences all doubt. This moment reshapes Simon’s identity—no longer is he a foundling with no past; he now has a bloodline, a family history, and relatives who have been searching for him. The chapter also deepens the bond between Simon and Baz, as Baz remains a steady support. This sets the stage for the rest of the novel, where Simon must navigate his new family connections and integrate this truth into his sense of self.
Study Questions and Answers
1. What role does Baz play in this scene?
Baz acts as both a loving partner and an observer. He comforts Simon but cannot get past Simon’s wings, highlighting his temporary physical separation while emotionally staying close. His internal narration shows he sees the truth even before the magical confirmation.
2. How does Lucy’s candle serve as proof of Simon’s family connection?
Lucy’s candle spontaneously flares up and then fizzles in response to Simon’s doubt. The cold draught, even with the window closed, adds to the supernatural atmosphere. The characters immediately accept this as a sign—stronger than a spell or a DNA test—that Lucy’s spirit or magic acknowledges Simon as family.
3. Why does Simon doubt the revelation that the Salisburys are his family?
Simon has grown up without a known family and may have internalized a lack of belonging. The sudden, overwhelming claim by Jamie and Lady Ruth seems too good to be true. His doubt is a natural defense mechanism against potential disappointment or the fear that he might lose this newfound connection as quickly as he found it.