Bill McGovern's Decline and Death

The story of Ralph's friend and downstairs neighbor, from his cynical wit to his sudden death at the hands of Atropos.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Cynical Friend

A Man of Words The Retired Teacher Bill McGovern is a retired history teacher who lives downstairs from Ralph. He is known for his satiric eyebrow, his literary allusions, and his constant complaints about aging. He calls Lois "Our Lois" and treats her with condescending affection. Despite his cynicism, he is a loyal friend. The Lost Hat Bill loses his beloved Panama hat, a symbol of his dapper self-image. He searches for it but cannot find it. Ralph later discovers that Atropos has taken it – the little bald doctor wears it and even bites a chunk out of the brim. Bill's hat becomes a token of his vulnerability. A Moment of Vulnerability Ralph finds Bill crying in Strawford Park over his old friend Bob Polhurst, who is dying of Alzheimer's. Bill admits that he hates getting old and that he is afraid. Ralph tries to comfort him, but Bill's fear of death is palpable. He is a man who has spent his life hiding behind wit, and now the mask is slipping.

The Argument

A Friendship Strained Ralph Confides in Bill Ralph tells Bill about the auras and the little bald doctors he has seen. Bill reacts with disbelief and concern, suggesting that Ralph's insomnia is causing hallucinations. He urges Ralph to see a doctor, warning that mental illness is common at their age. The Break Ralph is hurt by Bill's dismissal. They argue on the front porch, with Bill shouting that Ralph sounds like Ed Deepneau. Ralph walks away, angry and disillusioned. The argument marks a rift in their friendship. A Note of Apology Later, Bill leaves a note for Ralph apologizing for his harsh words. He explains that Bob Polhurst's impending death has wrecked his nerves. He offers to buy Ralph dinner. Ralph is relieved, but the damage is done – their relationship will never be the same.

Bill's Death

The Final Stroke A Heart Attack in the Corridor After visiting Bob Polhurst, Bill McGovern leaves the hospital with a friend. In the corridor, he stops, puts a hand to his chest, and crumples to the floor. Atropos has cut his balloon-string. Ralph and Lois, watching from a higher level, see it happen but cannot intervene. The Aftermath Ralph is devastated by Bill's death. He realizes that Atropos killed Bill to punish him for interfering in the affairs of the Random. Bill's Panama hat, now in Atropos's possession, becomes a symbol of the cost of Ralph's involvement. A Lost Friend Bill's funeral is a somber affair. Ralph mourns not only the loss of his friend but also the unresolved argument. He remembers Bill's wit, his kindness, and his fear of growing old. Bill's death hardens Ralph's resolve to stop Atropos and protect those he loves.

Summer and fall 1993

Tuesday morning, October 5, 1993

Tuesday night, October 5, 1993, at Derry Home Hospital