Lily and Andy’s Relationship

The Earthquake Bird

This flow traces the controlling relationship that Lily escapes, its continued hold over her, and the uncertain future she tries to choose.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

Jealous Control Jealous Control from "The Earthquake Bird". Jealous Control Suspicion at Home Andy suspects Lily of infidelity and reacts to men who speak with her.

Jealous Control from "The Earthquake Bird". Jealous Control Suspicion at Home Andy suspects Lily of infidelity and reacts to men who speak with her.

Jealous Control Suspicion at Home Andy suspects Lily of infidelity and reacts to men who speak with her. He even places a bugging device in her handbag, turning ordinary privacy into something she cannot safely assume. Leaving Becomes Necessary Lily ends the relationship and moves between friends before taking a job in Japan. The distance gives her a chance to breathe but does not immediately free her from fear or attachment.

A Letter Across Distance A Letter Across Distance from "The Earthquake Bird". A Letter Across Distance Contact Resumes Andy sends a letter through Lily’s friend in Britain.

A Letter Across Distance from "The Earthquake Bird". A Letter Across Distance Contact Resumes Andy sends a letter through Lily’s friend in Britain.

A Letter Across Distance Contact Resumes Andy sends a letter through Lily’s friend in Britain. Lily worries that he may trace her to Tokyo, though he does not yet know her address. Attachment Persists Lily admits that she misses Andy and wonders whether she has been too hard on him. Her uncertainty reveals that escape has changed her circumstances more quickly than it has changed her feelings.

The Unchosen Return The Unchosen Return from "The Earthquake Bird". The Unchosen Return Homesickness Grows Lily plans to leave Tokyo and return to nursing, believing she does not belong in Japan.

The Unchosen Return from "The Earthquake Bird". The Unchosen Return Homesickness Grows Lily plans to leave Tokyo and return to nursing, believing she does not belong in Japan.

The Unchosen Return Homesickness Grows Lily plans to leave Tokyo and return to nursing, believing she does not belong in Japan. Lucy fears that returning may place Lily back within Andy’s reach. A Delayed Decision The invitation to Sado Island persuades Lily to stay at least another month. The novel never shows whether she would ultimately return to Andy; her death interrupts the choice.

Before Lily’s departure for Japan

After Lily has settled into her Tokyo apartment

When Lily announces she will leave Japan