Martin Eden Chapter XXXV

In which Martin Eden finds himself deeply moved by Brissenden's haunting and extraordinary poem "Ephemera," a cosmic and profound work that challenges all notions of genius and truth, whilst also confronting his own creative humility. Meanwhile, the bonds of friendship and class become entwined in Martin's acts of generosity toward Maria Silva's family, stirring a painful clash of social worlds that lays bare the delicate sensitivities of Ruth and her place within them.